Canada, and the world, have lost a remarkable architect, one whose accomplishments
spanned the globe.

Here at the Canadian Embassy in Washington, I have the good fortune of working in one
of his inspiring buildings every day, and I know that his designs will continue to lead
innovation and originality in the next generation of international designers.

This month marks the 20th anniversary of the opening of the iconic Erickson Embassy.
Over the years we have welcomed a very large number of visitors who have come to see
the building, and they never fail to be intrigued by the quintessentially Canadian
touchstones in his design.

Michael Wilson
Ambassador

He was an idol of mine as a young student, while studying architecture
at the University of British Columbia. I remember visiting his house in
Vancouver and thinking how incredible he was. His house so private and
small and yet his creations bold and dynamic.
It is a sad loss that his contribution to architecture is now gone. Though
each time I visit the Canadian Embassy in Washington DC, I think of his
remarkable talent.

Vanessa

Arthur Erickson wasn't just this country's most distinguished architect, he was also its most civilized.

Resident of Canada, citizen of the world, Erickson roamed over continents and cultures with the greatest of ease.

Perhaps because of his West Coast roots, Erickson's architecture was rooted in the landscape of which it was part. He saw his
designs as a dialogue between a building and its setting. This "conversation," as one curator put it, "can establish a perception of the
'infinities' to which they both belong."

But in an age of starchitecture, Erickson's refusal to adopt a signature look kept him from achieving the kind of recognition he
deserved.

"I've always been against style, as such," he once said. "We have to live in the moment."

Even at their most corporate, his buildings possess an elegance that lifts them beyond the realm of money and power.

Great buildings, he said, moved the spirit. In his work, he proved himself true.

Christopher Hume

I was a student with Arthur at UBC in the late 60's and worked in his office in the 70's. I recall when SFU was still under construction. Arthur took the whole class to SFU
and he also invited Helen Goodwin, a well known dancer and choreographer to conduct a workshop with us to experience the new campus through dance and
movements. One of the exercises was the whole class rolled down the grassy slope to experience the topography of the hillside site. It was a joyful and exhilarating
moment for all, including Arthur. I was so inspired by that event I joined Helen's dance company after I graduated from architecture. I am sure if Arthur is here today he
would invite the entire congregation to roll down the hill with him to truly sense and touch this magnificent and timeless architecture he created which is still very much
alive today.

With Admiration and Forever Thankful,

Tad Young, MAIBC

I ended the interview (with Arthur in his garden) by a series of questions
called the Proust questionnaire.
One of the questions is:-       When you arrive in paradise,
what do you think God will say to you?
He smiled with the most beautiful, serene, luminous smile, and said:
-     "Go back and do it again!"

Michele Smolkin.

A bright light has gone out and the light we all share has
become dimmer with the death of this incredibly talented man,
but his monuments are here for us to admire and enjoy.

Tove Clarke

His best work was strong and clear, yet sensitive to site, material, and
light. Thanks for all the great spaces, Mr. Erickson.

Derek DeLand

It is with great sadness to accept Arthur's passing away. Conversations with Arthur were always unique and he gave lifetime advice, encouraged
and inspired me as a young artist.

We spoke in great detail about Spain, particularly Salamanca, a city which impacted both of us in a profound manner.

Arthur is an icon in the truest sense and yet his character was just nothing but lovely. It was always such a joy to listen to his travel anecdotes as
he shared his worldly and cultural experiences. His words of wisdom shall continue to inspire me deeply as I remember a true gentleman and
citizen of the world.

Tini Meyer