Robert Smithson's Spiral Jetty, viewed from space (via Tropolism)
Bad news, folks: the Spiral Jetty—Robert Smithson's brilliant, visionary earthwork from 1970—is officially at risk for destruction. According to the Dia Art Foundation, nefarious oil barons plan to drill in Utah's Great Salt Lake near the iconic 1,500 foot long coil. This is certain to disrupt the remote ambiance and placid environment so crucial to the Jetty's design.
From Dia's February 6, 2008 press release:
"Dia strenuously objects to the proposed drilling which will occur less than 5 miles away from the Jetty. The drilling itself, and potential subsequent oil extraction, will disrupt the viewshed and the area's isolated character, and will degrade the natural environment of the lake by introducing barges with large-scale drilling equipment.
Moreover, construction and operation will introduce toxins and chemicals to the delicate saline water and wetlands that surround the lake. In the case of a toxic spill, the proposed operation would cause irreparable damage to the lake environment and threaten the physical integrity of Smithson's extraordinary sculpture. Additionally, Dia is concerned about increased traffic and heavy transport on the rural road that leads to the Spiral Jetty through Golden Spike National Monument, and the potential for noise pollution from drilling and operations."
If you'd like to actually DO something to oppose the destruction of Spiral Jetty, please email or print out the convenient PDF letter and mail it to the address at the top of the form. I don't normally use Tomorrowland as a bully pulpit for any sort of cause, but Robert Smithson's work is inspiring enough to warrant this sort of outreach. Let's save the Jetty!
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