Travelled out to the Great Salt Lake last weekend to see Robert Smithson’s ‘Spiral Jetty’. Being my first visit (not counting the times I’ve flown over it), it was only natural that I first see it and photograph it at night. That is, I seem to have a penchant for first visiting landmark locations while at night. For example, I made three trips to photograph Delicate Arch before finally seeing it in daylight. The same could be said of Mt. Timpanogos, Lone Peak cirque, and many others.
Seeing a natural (or manmade) form for the first time in the dim star- or moon-light adds a dimension of mystery. It’s as though the brain hasn’t quite resolved everything, leaving more room for the imagination to run free. Mountain walls loom taller overhead, sandstone arches feel thoroughly lunar, and a singular spiral jetty in the desert evokes extraterrestrials.
Unfortunately, my beloved Subaru blew out its turbo-charger on the way home, making these photos worth at least $1,500 
Comments 6
Matt,
Posted 10 Mar 2009 at 5:42 am ¶I love your work, Turley inspirational!
I have subscribed to your blog and look forward to more; and as an aspiring amateur, I hope to hear more tips, insights, and a look at your process. I would still love to see you again sometime…my schedule, as I’m sure yours is too, is solidly booked and I have not made it back west in sometime. But when I do, it would be great to catch up.
-phil
Thanks Phil! It’d be great to see you too, let keep me posted whenever you make it out here.
Posted 10 Mar 2009 at 6:15 pm ¶Matt,
These are so beautiful!!! You REALLY are an amazing photographer– I absolutely love your work! Im glad I was able to experience the jetty with you and appreciate Roberts artistic creation!
Posted 11 Mar 2009 at 8:09 am ¶Hey Matt,
These look gorgeous. I’ve always been a fan of your work, I’m sure you know. You continue to inspire and awe me. Your talent is unparalleled. Glad to know such a great “magician”.
Posted 14 Mar 2009 at 4:27 am ¶Ah… beautiful shots of the Spiral Jetty. I particularly like the last shot. Inspires me to make the trek back out there, but this time at night…
Posted 17 Mar 2009 at 5:18 pm ¶Thanks Rachel – night time rocks!
Posted 17 Mar 2009 at 5:37 pm ¶Post a Comment