This is a sculpture with two ends and no beginning, it fosters an awareness of the surrounding beauty and provides an environment for deep contemplation; these are its true essences. It is not simply an object or oddity to visit; physical descriptions won't convey its spirit.
My discovery of the Jetty's significance as a meaningful work of art is rooted in the totality of my interactions with it.
As I slowly walked along the Jetty's rock spine, winding my way towards its center, my focus repeatedly swept across the surrounding landscape; flat, barren, tranquil, surrounded by mountains, so silent, and so beautiful. I began reflecting on the happenstance of events which led me there. I thought of loved ones, of my past, of those I have lost, and of how this all may be shaping my future.
I did not want to reach the center too quickly; it seemed to represent not just an end to the Spiral Jetty, but an end of an adventure, and an ending of a rewarding experience.
As the spiral unfolded on my return from its center, with each revolution my attention was repeatedly drawn away from the mountains and toward the beach; toward the beach end of the spiral, another end I was slow to approach.
So why is there no beginning?
The beginning is not in a part of the Jetty, it is the decision to leave home and pursue the truth in this earthen sculpture.
My Spiral Jetty Pictures (click here for entire album)
