7.24.2012

a field trip...

Out in the middle of the Arizona desert, about an hour north of Phoenix, just a bit off the highway, is a place.

A place like no other.

I was born in Arizona.
I have lived in Arizona all my life.
I had never visited this place.
But...
This is my year of discovery.
Last week, I discovered Arcosanti.

Arcosanti has an interesting history.  It was designed and built by the fascinating Paolo Soleri (who is still thriving at 93 years old).  You can read more about Paolo here.  

Here is a little look around.  Just to give you a feel of the surroundings...

view from the stairwell

fabulous ceilings on an outdoor patio type area

the outdoor theater, they fill that recess in front of the stage with water for productions

love this
Probably one of the main things people think about when they hear the name Paolo Soleri, is bells.  The Soleri bells are famous here in Arizona.  They are indeed, quite lovely.  I have a small one I scored at an estate sale for a steal, it hangs outside the back door.  I assumed we would be seeing bells on our visit.  
I wasn't, however, prepared the quantity or quality - both great.  

I'll let the photos speak for themselves.







“If you had told me fifty years ago that I would build my activities from the proceeds of windbells, I would have said you were crazy.” - Paolo Soleri

People at work...

and peacocks at play...

It was a thought provoking, beautiful, relaxing and fascinating place.  My mother, daughter and I learned quite a bit and enjoyed our afternoon together.


What more could you ask for?   
Except maybe one of those bells...

11 comments:

Maria said...

Yep - the boys and I would be in love with ALL of those bells - how could one ever, ever choose! What a fantastic place! We LOVE those kinds of adventures over here! SO happy you three got to go and experience the wonder of it all.

Anonymous said...

Love the bells and the peacock! xo

Alexa said...

Oh wow what an incredible place. I love all of the angles and it's beautiful location!

KR said...

A really wondrous place!
There were nice heavy clouds and a breeze to keep us cool!
Great shots!

Andrew H. said...

Great shots. I kind of feel like I've been there now. Makes me think we need to find a more prominent spot for our little bell.

angryparsnip said...

I have never visited but have wanted to. Not sure that I could be able to walk around very much but it would be so interesting.
Side note, one of my painting teacher despised the whole Arcosanti, Paolo Soleri and bells, I always thought he was jealous. Who knows ?
I want many of the bells you showed how could you only pick one.

cheers, parsnip

Ren- Lady Of The Arts said...

how very cool- I have never been to a place that had peacocks that I didn't love.

Stitchfork said...

Would love to see and hear the bells! I've had a little silver bell on my keychain for years - much to the chagrin of all my sons ;) Great photos!
xo Cathy

garage equipment said...

I think you had a wonderful day with your adventure. You explore the places that everyone are wanted to see.

Unknown said...

I am the very proud owner of 2 Arcosanti bells that we received as gifts when we moved from Arizona to Illinois. I have never visited Arcosanti - but I think this needs to be on our "must do" list the next time we come home. Well, along with some time with our favorite Everton Terrace family!

EWA said...

Have you been to the Cosanti Foundation, where Soleri started, just down the street from us?