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1985 Watts Towers Entrance Los Angeles Simon Rodia Renovations Press Photo

$ 14.26

  • Antique: No
  • Featured Person/Artist: Simon Rodia
  • Framing: Unframed
  • Number of Photographs: 1
  • Original/Licensed Reprint: Original
  • Production Technique: Gelatin-Silver Print
  • Size: 11x7.5 inches
  • Subject: tourist, architectural, landmark, renovation
  • Theme: architecture, cities & towns, history, people
  • Time Period Manufactured: 1980-1989
  • Type: Photograph
  • Unit of Sale: Single Piece
  • Vintage: Yes
  • Year of Production: 1985

Description

An original press photograph from the archives of the venerable 150 year-old Star Tribune newspaper in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Type & Size: A 11x7.5" original photograph. Condition: Photo from a working archive. May contain notes, marks, labels, clippings, and/or retouching by the staff at the time of publication. May contain issues associated with time, age, and use. Please see images for scans. A visitor examines the entrance to the Watts Towers in Los Angeles. The unique architectural landmark, created by Simon Rodia, was open in July 1985 but scheduled for closure for a $1 million renovation. The intricate design and mosaic facade are prominent in the photograph, showcasing the artistic ingenuity of Rodia's work. The scene captures a moment outside the towers, highlighting this important cultural site within the city. The Watts Towers, constructed over 33 years by Simon Rodia, stand as a symbol of creative expression and community resilience. Located in the Watts district of Los Angeles, the towers are composed of steel rods and mesh, covered with mortar, decorated with glass, tile, and shell fragments. Rodia's vision has become an icon of folk art and a testament to individual artistic endeavor. The towers faced demolition several times but were preserved due to public support and recognition of their cultural significance. Text present on photo: (NY35-July 27)--ENTRANCEWAY--A tourist looks at the entrance to one of the "Watts Towers" in Los Angeles recently. Open through Sunday July 28, the unique architectural landmark built by sculptor Simon Rodia, will be closed again until a $1 million renovation is completed and an international celebration can be scheduled, according to John Outterbridge, director of the Watts Towers Art Center. (AP Laserphoto) (dpf72300str/nancy kaye) 1985 SLUG: WATTS TOWERS JUL 1985 - - - The press photo archives contained a mix of silver gelatin and wire photographs from sources such as Associated Press Wirephoto. Generally B&W images with no typed text on them in this archive are silver gelatin images, and photos with typed text are wire photos. All images are vintage and original to their era.