Background in art, architecture, and technology in studio and corporate realms
How did I became interested in technology?
Through a mentor at the University of Texas summer science camp. His key lesson: how most discoveries arise just after the use of a new technology. I like discoveries.
What's my favorite technology and why?
Visualization tools that help in analysis of design problems and alternate solutions. In software development, the technologies that refine designs per constraints of specific devices.
How did I became interested in photography?
Through conversations with Don Phillips, pharmacist at Rexall Drug Store and seller of photographic equipment in my hometown, Arkadelphia, Arkansas. Don reviewed my attempts to learn a single lens reflex camera one summer, while I kept taking shots climbing in and out of beech nut trees. That was in between my college terms on the East Coast. Now I am refocused on photography as a recent retiree. I've been taking photos for a long time.
What's my favorite art subject and why?
I like to document and interpret nature — from shots that capture the beauty and energy of plant and animal species, to those that portray the energy of forces in nature. I enjoy finding the story in a composition, whether told by a spring ephemeral, a monumental waterfall, or interesting shapes I happen to see. I enjoy arranging elements that I find in nature, recording the process that adds my own mark of order in a landscape.
How did I became interested in architecture and design?
Through hours and hours of play as a kid with a set of Skyline building blocks. I was doing Bauhaus cathedrals at the age of 8.
What's my favorite architectural subject and why?
Residences. Because we get to eat, sleep, and play in them. Because solving problems for residential clients is a joy.
Nature enthusiast. Adventure lover.
Observer, Thinker, Doer.
Self Employment: David Orr Design Studio, 1993-present
Creative studio blending experience in art, architecture, landscape design, and technology from both corporate and studio realms.
2019-present
Current project in residential design, landscape and land art design, art installations, and web media.
2017
Kauai Vacation Rental, Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii
2015-2016
Hypercision, Oak Park, Illinois
2014
Meadowbrook Insurance, Southfield, Michigan
Perfect Ambient Music, Chicago, Illinois
2011
Boston Media Group, Boston, Massachusetts
Jones Lang Lasalle, San Francisco, California
2010
HPZS Architects, Chicago, Illinois
Corporate Web Design & Development, Consulting
2018-2019
American College Testing (ACT), Iowa City, Iowa
2017-2018
CVS Pharmacy, Northbrook, Illinois
2016-2017
Peapod/Ahold Delhaize, Chicago, Illinois
2016
Gogo Inflight Services, Chicago, Illinois
2014-2015
SurePayroll, Glenview, Illinois
2014
John Deere, Intelligent Solutions Group, Urbandale, Iowa
2010-2013
State Farm Insurance, Bloomington, Illinois
2010
American Society of Anesthesiologists, Mount Prospect, Illinois
2009-2010
Health Care Service Corp. (Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois), Chicago, Illinois
2008-2009
Allstate Insurance, Northbrook, Illinois
Teaching
2001-2002
Curriculum Advisor, web project management certificate program, Graham School of Continuing Education, University of Chicago
Pro Bono Web Design & Development
1998-2013
Jo Daviess Conservation Foundation, Elizabeth, Illinois
Education
2001
University of Chicago, Graham School of Continuing Education, Chicago, Illinois, Web Project Management Professional Certificate
1991
DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois, Continuing Education, Computer Programming
1979
Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, Master of Architecture
1974
Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, B.A., Natural Science Area Major
1972
National Science Foundation Undergraduate Research Participation Program, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey
1969
National Science Foundation Research Participation Program for High Ability Secondary School Students, University of Texas, Austin, Texas
Riparian Stick Serpent, Right Cranial
Riparia, USA, land art installation, February 2020
Praxis Photographic Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota, April 2020, Group Exhibition
Walton Art Center, Fayetteville, Arkansas, May 2020, Group Exhibition