Artist Bob Holdeman on "A Dream Of Home"

The historic I-House architectural style was predominant throughout the rural areas of Illinois, Indiana, and Iowa-hence its name. Traditionally the I-House has side facing gables one room deep, a minimum of two rooms width and two full stories high, often with Greek Revival or Italianate embellishments. This interpretation by architect/artist Bob Holdeman honors the legacy of past settlements in Michigan while encouraging discussion of the historical significance of architecture in our culture.
It represents our roots and suggests the “homeplace” and safety of unchanging memories. Look around as you drive through the countryside and you will often still see the shadows of I-Houses along the roads and villages you pass through.
The piece is also a memorial to Art Park Founder, David Barr, who felt strongly about the inclusion of architecture in Michigan’s story, and to the artist’s son John, who lived out his life in an I-House-his dream of home.