Louis Sullivan
(Sept. 3, 1856–Apr. 14, 1924)

Sullivan, an influential architect of the Chicago School, is often called the “prophet of modern architecture,” and conceived the phrase, “form ever follows function.” Among his works are the Auditorium Theater, the Carson-Pirie Scott store, and the Charnley House.  He influenced the work of Frank Lloyd Wright, who spent over six years as Sullivan’s chief draftsman. Sullivan’s architecture is a “mixture of plain geometry and undisguised massing punctuated with elaborate pockets of ornamentation in stone, wood and terra cotta.” He was buried with a small stone marker, but in five years a more fitting memorial was designed by Thomas Tallmadge with Sullivan’s profile set in one of his own designs.

photo and text by Joe Collier