Spiral Jetty
Overview
The Spiral Jetty is an earthwork sculpture constructed in April 1970 by the American sculptor Robert Smithson. It is located on the northeastern shore of the Great Salt Lake near Rozel Point in Utah. The sculpture is built of mud, salt crystals, basalt rocks, and water, and forms a 1,500-foot-long (460 m), 15-foot-wide (4.6 m) counterclockwise coil jutting from the shore of the lake. The Spiral Jetty is considered one of the most important works of land art.
Historical Context
Land Art Movement
The Spiral Jetty is a seminal piece in the land art movement, which emerged in the late 1960s and early 1970s. This movement was characterized by the use of natural landscapes to create site-specific structures, art forms, and sculptures. Artists like Michael Heizer, Nancy Holt, and Walter De Maria were contemporaries of Smithson and contributed significantly to this genre. The movement was partly a reaction against the commercialization of art and the limitations of traditional gallery spaces.
Robert Smithson
Robert Smithson (1938-1973) was an influential figure in the land art movement. He was known for his innovative use of natural materials and his interest in entropy, geology, and the relationship between human activity and the natural world. Smithson's work often explored the concept of "non-sites," which juxtaposed natural and industrial landscapes. His untimely death in a plane crash in 1973 cut short a promising career, but his legacy endures through works like the Spiral Jetty.
Construction
Site Selection
Smithson chose the site at Rozel Point for its unique geological and industrial features. The area was rich in black basalt rocks, remnants of ancient volcanic activity, and had a history of oil drilling, which left behind decaying industrial equipment. The juxtaposition of natural beauty and industrial decay fascinated Smithson and influenced his decision to construct the Spiral Jetty there.
Materials and Methods
The construction of the Spiral Jetty involved moving over 6,000 tons of basalt rock and earth to create the spiral shape. Smithson worked with a local contractor, Bob Phillips, and used heavy machinery such as dump trucks, front loaders, and tractors. The project took six days to complete. The choice of materials was significant; the black basalt rocks contrasted sharply with the white salt crystals and red water of the lake, creating a striking visual effect.
Environmental Impact
Interaction with the Great Salt Lake
The Great Salt Lake is a dynamic environment, with water levels that fluctuate significantly due to seasonal changes and long-term climatic variations. These fluctuations have periodically submerged and exposed the Spiral Jetty, affecting its appearance and accessibility. During periods of high water, the jetty is submerged, and during low water, it is fully exposed, encrusted with salt crystals.
Ecological Considerations
Smithson was acutely aware of the environmental implications of his work. He saw the Spiral Jetty as a collaboration with nature, subject to the forces of erosion, sedimentation, and ecological change. The site has become a habitat for brine shrimp and various bird species, integrating the artwork into the local ecosystem. However, the construction process did disturb the local environment, raising questions about the balance between artistic expression and environmental stewardship.
Cultural Significance
Artistic Legacy
The Spiral Jetty is widely regarded as a masterpiece of land art and has influenced generations of artists. Its remote location and monumental scale challenge traditional notions of art and its accessibility. The work embodies Smithson's ideas about entropy, decay, and the passage of time, making it a profound statement on the human condition and our relationship with the natural world.
Public Perception
Since its creation, the Spiral Jetty has attracted artists, scholars, and tourists from around the world. It has been the subject of numerous academic studies, documentaries, and exhibitions. The Dia Art Foundation acquired the artwork in 1999 and has worked to preserve it and promote public access. The foundation's efforts have included educational programs, guided tours, and collaborations with local and state agencies.
Preservation and Conservation
Challenges
Preserving the Spiral Jetty presents unique challenges due to its location and materials. The fluctuating water levels of the Great Salt Lake, combined with natural weathering processes, pose ongoing threats to the structure. Additionally, increased tourism and human activity at the site have raised concerns about physical damage and environmental degradation.
Conservation Efforts
The Dia Art Foundation has implemented several measures to protect the Spiral Jetty. These include regular monitoring of the site's condition, research on the impacts of environmental changes, and collaboration with conservation experts. The foundation also works to educate visitors about the importance of preserving the artwork and minimizing their impact on the site.