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Soleri
Book Initiatives deals with the compilation and dissemination
of Paolo Soleri’s
theoretical work, both philosophical and architectural
in nature, as it manifests itself in his writings,
the publication of those writings and the study and
discussion of their content.
The Book Initiatives, as
it was reinvented by Soleri and Kathleen Ryan in the
late ‘90s after a 15
year lull in Soleri’s publishing activities,
has overseen all of Soleri’s recent literary
activity including the creation and publication of
The Urban Ideal (2001, Berkeley Hills Books), the English
language translation of Iolanda Lima’s Italian Soleri:
Architecture as Human Ecology (2001, Jaca Books/2002,
Monacelli Press) and, most centrally, the recent publication
of What If? Collected Writings 1986-2000 (2002, Berkeley
Hills Books), perhaps Soleri's most comprehensive volume
of theoretical work.
The Book Initiatives' main
project is the compilation of material for the What
If? Quaderni,
an anticipated
companion series to the newest book comprised of 40-50
thin volumes of material each focusing on two or three
related topics from a list of 123 of Soleri’s
central ideas, projects and programs.
The Book Initiatives
other main area of concentration are the weekly School
of Thought sessions, held at
Cosanti and Arcosanti both, which serve as discussion
and informal classroom for Soleri and his ideas.
The
rest of the Book Initiatives’ time is taken
up with the formal and informal writing which Dr. Soleri
produces on a daily basis: typing it, copy editing
it, organizing and compiling it. Occasionally Soleri
produces papers or statements on request for special
events or presentations, the Book Initiatives is in
charge of the preparation and often presentation of
these materials. The Book Initiatives also sometimes
fields requests for materials or questions about Soleri’s
writings and ideas from the public, the press and individuals
within the Cosanti Foundation.
For those planning to
visit Arcosanti or Cosanti, the Book Initiatives strongly
encourages taking advantage
of the availability of Soleri himself at the School
of Thought sessions. And for those coming to Arcosanti
for a workshop or longer stay, the Book Initiatives
does often have apprenticeships and volunteer opportunities
available to those wishing to work more closely on
Soleri’s writings.
For any questions, comments,
requests or inquiries, please contact:
Jewel Blackfeather
Arcosanti,HC 74 Box 4136, Mayer, AZ 86333
tel: 928-632-6218
email: soleriwritings@arcosanti.org
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