The "Spiral Jetty" by Robert Smithson

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses the reoccurring theme of the helix in nature in Robert Smithson's "Spiral Jetty". The detailed issues of location for the earth work are not surprising, since it offers a symbolic and biological place for the origin of life. The salt that had crystallized on the rocks after being submerged under the salt lake, epitomizes the genius of Smithson's foresight in understanding biological processes. An analysis of why this earth work was placed in Salt Lake, Utah, also explains why life has it origins in this type of salty water environment.

From the Paper:

"In many ways, this earth work represents the origins of life through the spiraling nature of the DNA helix. Furthermore, Nature allows the spiral form on a cosmic scale in galaxies, as all life points this form in Smithson's work. "

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