John Conklin was admired around the world for his career as a highly acclaimed stage designer. His style was conceptual rather than literal, and through his open approach to design possibilities Conklin had an enormous influence. He was one of the principal figures in American stage design, both for opera and for theater, and his set and costume designs were seen in opera houses, theaters, and ballet companies across the world. In 2011 Conklin was an NEA Opera Honoree. Here is the video celebrating him made for that honor.
You can read the PLSN remembrance of Conklin here.