Unbuilt: Frank Gehry Speaks Out on Canceled Museum Project
Article By: Marc Tracy for the Tablet
In light of the ongoing debate regarding the Jerusalem Museum of Tolerance’s plans to place a design by Frank Gehry over a plot of land once occupied by an ancient Muslim cemetery, Frank Gehry has decided to drop out.
This article explains the details of the confusion over whether the political circumstances regarding the project were to blame for Gehry’s termination, or whether he simply no longer wished to continue with the work. Whatever the reason, the cancellation of the $250 million dollar project is leaving many disgruntled participants, supposedly including Gehry himself. Despite these reports, a statement has been issued to the Tablet that Gehry's leaving was not a reflection of the 'political sensitivity,’ (as quoted from his partner Craig Webb).
The project was faced with much opposition from the Muslim community from the start, including a petition signed by leading British architects. Looking at this topic with a critical eye that goes beyond its budget and the celebrity of Mr. Gehry, it seems rather ironic to consider so much upheval surrounds the construction of what is intended as a symbol of cultural tolerance in a historically charged region.
