Compare and contrast Walter De Maria’s The Lightning Field and Robert Smithson’s Spiral Jetty.

What will be an ideal response?

Answer: The ideal answer should include:
1. Walter De Maria’s The Lightning Field consists of stainless-steel poles arranged in a rectangular grid that act as lightning conductors during electrical storms in the New Mexico desert.
2. Although the artwork interacts with the surrounding landscape, it is considered a site-specific work because it does not permanently alter the environment.
3. Robert Smithson’s Spiral Jetty, however, is considered an earthwork because it merges with the environment.
4. Smithson created a spiral, a form that is found in nature and ancient art, by installing basalt rock in the Great Salt Lake, and as the water level changes the work goes in and out of view.