The Magic of Cosanti and the Soleri Bells
Arcology & Craft in Paradise Valley, Arizona
Just an hour’s drive south of Arcosanti, you’ll find Cosanti, nestled in the town of Paradise Valley near Scottsdale, Arizona. This is the home and studio of the late Italian-American architect, Paolo Soleri. Cosanti is known for its experimental architecture, embodying Soleri’s arcology philosophy which seeks to harmonize the built and natural environments for the betterment of both people and the planet.
Cosanti is also renowned for the Cosanti Originals, or the Soleri Bells, as they are often called. These one-of-a-kind, artisan-crafted bronze and ceramic wind bells were first introduced in the 1950’s and still produced and cherished by collectors today. My initial intention for visiting Cosanti was to acquire my very own Soleri Bell. However, upon arrival, I found myself completely captivated by the space and its intriguing Mad Max-Futopoian vibe.
With a little research, I discovered that the buildings were constructed counter-intuitively in a rather unconventional manner, built from the roof down and inside out (and usually by hand.) This process gave rise to the organic structures we see today, with an emphasis on the walls and roof, incorporating frugality, recycling and experiments with passive solar heating and cooling, designed in harmony with the sun’s positions - a critical element in the desert southwest.
In addition to the striking impact of the property and its profound connection to nature, the Bells themselves hold a special place at Cosanti. Still made on-site today, they employ the same techniques and traditional designs that originated in the 1950’s. Each bell, whether ceramic or cast bronze, is individually crafted by local artisans at both Arcosanti in Mayer, Arizona, and Cosanti in Paradise Valley.
When it comes down to it, choosing a bell of your own can feel a bit overwhelming. Do you go with the Cast Bronze or Ceramic? Large or small? A single bell or a multifaceted wind chime? What finish or design do you want? Ultimately, for me, it came down to the resonance of the bell. I wanted it to sound as beautiful as it looked.
For those who are seasoned collectors of Soleri Bells, the options seem less confining in choice but more so within the constraints of space as Soleri suggests in his theory of “bounded density” or the capacity for growth within the means of ones natural environment.
Architectural Macrame Artist, Beachcomber and friend, Jim Olarte has been a connoisseur of Soleri Bells for years. At his home in Laguna, Jim showcases his personal collection of bells hung in perfect harmony with the natural surroundings of his lush California backyard. On the right are examples of Jim’s own work at his Laguna Beach studio, accented with a patina-green, bronze casted Soleri Bell.
“We must redesign the American Dream before we rebuild the infrastructure on which it is based.” - Paolo Soleri
To visit Cosanti is to open your mind to the possibilities of living a more considered and connected life. Through the structures we build, how we engage with nature and community and the thoughtful use of materials and “elegant frugality.” The experience of seeing this place first hand, leaves a lasting impression and I will forever be reminded of the inspiration of Paolo Soleri’s visionary work with each ring of my treasured bell.
To learn more about visiting Cosanti and starting your own collection of Soleri Bells please visit: Cosanti Foundation
To Learn more about Jim Olarte’s work you can visit him at his Laguna studio at: 950 Glenneyre, Laguna Beach, CA., or check him out on Instagram @jimolarte
It’s an overcast morning in Los Angeles, but I feel like I’ve been transported to Cosanti. I can almost hear the Soleri Bells! Reading this beautiful piece will serve as this mornings meditation. Thank you! 🔔