PHOENIX--(BUSINESS WIRE)--For the first time, the Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust will be conducting workshops in Arizona on the Froebel geometric blocks that influenced the renowned architect and inspired the “Biltmore Blocks” used to build the Arizona Biltmore. Wright and other modern architects and artists were significantly influenced by early 19th century German educator Friedrich Froebel, who developed toy blocks that introduced children to pattern-making, beauty, harmony, aesthetics and structure. The Biltmore Blocks, adapted from a Wright design, were pre-cast from desert sand on-site and created in 34 different geometric patterns. The single-session Froebel Block Workshops will be conducted by Jan Kieckhefer, director of education for the Chicago-based FLW Preservation Trust. The workshops have not been held outside of Chicago previously. Kieckhefer will introduce participants to the geometric shapes that underlie nature, art and design, and they will work with the shapes to create both two- and three-dimensional structures. In the workshop, they will experience principles of balance, tension, spatial relationships, composition, symmetry and asymmetry. The workshops will be held in the Arizona Biltmore’s historic Gold Room. Saturday, October 10: one-hour class at 10:00 a.m. for children in the second through fifth grades for $50 each; 90-minute class at 3:00 p.m. for fifth graders and up for $50 each. Sunday, October 11: one-hour class at 10:00 a.m. for families for $50 each; 90-minute class and discussion at 3:00 p.m. for adults for $100 each. For reservations, contact Becky Blaine, Arizona Biltmore, 602-954-2550. Space is limited to 30 participants per class. For participants who also want to stay overnight, special room rates are being offered starting at $169 per night for classic accommodations, $219 for Ocatilla accommodations – use group offer code “BLOCKS” when booking. The Arizona Biltmore is the ideal place to turn a Froebel Block Workshop into a family getaway because it is among the country’s most family-friendly resorts. Travel + Leisure recently named it one of the ‘50 Best Family Resorts.’ Kids enjoy everything from Teepee Parties and the fun and games of Kids Korral to Paradise Pool with its 92-foot waterslide. Meanwhile, adults enjoy every sophisticated resort pleasure, from massages and golf to gourmet dining and cocktails on the Wright Bar patio with panoramic mountain views. Celebrating its 80th anniversary this year, the Arizona Biltmore is among the world’s most recognized resorts for its distinctive Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired architecture, luxurious facilities and storied history as a playground of the rich and famous. Facilities include eight swimming pools; seven tennis courts; two championship golf courses; signature dining in Wright’s at The Biltmore; and comfort food in Frank & Albert’s. More information: (602) 955-6600, 800-950-0086, www.Arizonabiltmore.com.
