The "Layers of Time"
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The "Layers of Time" tiles found on the support columns of the Phoenix Rio Salado Gateway shade structure were created by Tempe artist Tom Strich. The stacked tiles resemble the layers of an archaeological dig.
The first layer (the bottom tile in the columns pictured here) explores the geological history of the Rio Salado area. The impressions on these tiles were taken directly from the ground, capturing patterns created when water mingles with earth. The second layer addresses natural history, showing plants and animals that thrive when water is brought to the desert, including beaver tracks. Habitats represented here include marsh, cottonwood/willow and mesquite bosque. The third layer honors the first people to inhabit this region. Pre-historic Hohokam culture is represented with castings of artifacts and a model of a Hohokam canal. This layer also includes castings of traditional foods and crafts of historic and contemporary Pima and Maricopa peoples. |
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The fourth layer addresses the influx of settlers from around the world as the Valley developed into an agricultural community. Various aspects of that early economy are represented here, including cotton, wheat, ranching, citrus and flowers.
The fifth layer brings us to our present day urban culture and contains emblems of modern desert living, from golf balls to gas nozzles, from earthmovers to computers, plumbing and cell phones. Tom Strich served as a member of the design team for the Rio Salado Gateway Plaza. In addition to the "Layers of Time" tiles, Strich also created the eight art panels set into the plaza's outer railing. Light poles designed by Strich for the Central Avenue Rio Salado Bridge, as well as two more sets of "Layers of Time" tiles for the new plaza, are planned for later this year. These elements are a public art project made possible by Percent for Art Funds from the City of Phoenix Parks, Recreation and Library Department and Federal TEA-21 Funds, and administered by the Phoenix Arts Commission. |