Watts Towers: The Power of Vision

Throughout history and across cultures people have created objects and monuments that have had special significance for contemporary and succeeding generations. One well known example is the Statue of Liberty, which stands in New York Harbor as a beacon for American freedoms and opportunities. Although many of these creations were produced through collaborative efforts and following cultural canons, a few have been the result of one person's unique vision and determination. Such is the extraordinary Watts Towers, which over a period of thirty years (1921-1954)rose from a Los Angeles backyard like a fantastic visionary cathedral. Its sole creator was Simon Rodia, an Italian immigrant who earned his living as a concrete worker and tile setter. Working with hand tools and innovative methods of iron and concrete construction, Rodia built an elaborate network of arches, gateways, and towering lacy spires. Virtually every inch is encrusted with glittering pieces of broken glass and colorful tile, seashells, and other fragments and impressions. Art educators of the twenty-first century are themselves artists, and, like Simon Rodia, harbor visions they wish to share. Their visions are expressed in their artwork, to be sure, but also are manifest in their dedication to teaching and learning art. They know that to experience art in all its richness and diversity is to experience profound revelations of self and culture, and this can provide us all with vitality for today and hope for tomorrow.