Hello Friends and Family,

Link to this year's index by clicking here.


Arcosanti, Part 4

Next stop on the tour is one of the residences — again with the large glass opening to bring the sunshine into the interior areas. Sorry, we were not invited in for tea and coffee.



Here is an interesting architectural detail attached to that same residence — a balcony with an artistic railing. I love it, especially with the cloudless, deep blue sky above it.


They have done a nice job of landscaping Arcosanti. My guess is that this is gazania, a groundcover frequently found in California.


Here we see a fig tree. Our tour guide said she had her eye on this tree and these pieces of fruit in particular. Looks yummy to me too.


Next up are a couple of yucca plants next to the entrance to the residence.


More landscaping is displayed along the walkway.


This was a bit of a surprise for me — a small cluster of Italian Cypress trees which give a much-needed touch of elegance. I don't expect to see such trees in the middle of the Arizona desert (even if they are imported, I would assume they need more water and less sun than found here).


And just beyond is a covered gathering area. The guide explained the construction method — they created a hill topped with colored sand then poured concrete into forms on top of the sand. Some of the colors of the sand have faded while others are still vibrant.


Between the two arches, I spotted the signs of modern society — a TV antenna and a satellite dish.


Beyond the gathering area is a well-equipped workshop. They need to be pretty self-sufficient out here — you can't just run to Home Depot for every little thing.


A recommendation from one of my photography instructors in Santa Fe — before you leave, be sure to turn around and check the scene behind you. Marvelous advice.


To be continued...

Life is good.

Aloha,
B. David

P. S., All photos and text © B. David Cathell Photography, Inc. — www.bdavidcathell.com