LK is the art and research arm of Solk Architecture. It is a departure from the pre-set rules and paradigms of client-directed work, allowing for creative expression focused only on the constraints of the physical world. These investigations often fold back into the architectural practice, and vice versa.

LK captures the name “Leah Kiren”, and also serves a nod to the inspiring work of Lee Krasner, who often signed her paintings “L.K.” in an effort to remove concepts of (her) gender from the reading of the work. Solk Architecture/LK searches for a manner to present work in a shared neutral space without the implied lens of pre-stablished constructions of gender.

An exercise: Stand in front of a work of art and tell yourself that it was created by a man. Consider it, then step away. Return and tell yourself that it was created by a woman. Consider how the work may now hold different meaning for you.

Can art and architectural expressions have the option to be viewed without the context of the qualities of their makers? I’d like that to be the case someday.

Leah Kiren Solk