Paul Rudolph was an influential American architect active in the mid-20th century. He is known for buildings characterized by boldly contrasting masses and complexly interlocking spaces. Rudolph studied under Walter Gropius at Harvard and later chaired the School of Architecture at Yale University. Some of his notable works include the Yale Art and Architecture Building, considered his masterpiece, and various houses in Sarasota, Florida that helped define the Sarasota School of Architecture. Rudolph's style incorporated large amounts of glass, modular designs, and dramatic plays of light and shadow.