“The Open Gate Monument”

This Sculpture is Featured in the Sedona Roundabout just north of Exposures Gallery

Maquette Version Available for purchase – Click Here

Why The Gate? – The Tlaquepaque Bridge has historically been the gateway to Sedona. The gate motif is a welcoming transition between our spectacular eight mile scenic highway and central Sedona.

Why the Heron? – For 30 years my family and I have enjoyed seeing a Great Blue Heron peacefully wading in the creek north of the old bridge or flying above the trees. Missing glimpses of him and the creek made me want to feature an Creekside atmosphere inn the roundabout. I tried almost every animal indigenous to this area  to be part of the gate design but the great blue heron just had to be the attendant at the gate.

What are the symbols for the gate? – My research revealed that the apple tree, a symbol of antiquity and its apples, the fruit of creativity were natural choices. The red rocks, symbolizing beauty were a given. The bear courage (the negative space below the tree branches) showed up unexpectedly as I worked to refine the red rocks. The more I tried to edit him out, the more he seemed to belong. The heron was discovered to symbolize the quest for our unique purpose in life.

Together, what are these symbols saying? – The timeless beauty of Sedona has inspired in many, the courage to pursue their life’s calling, the fruit of which has been a blessing to our community and the world. Searching for our personal expression in life regardless of our ethnic or cultural background is the hallmark of Sedona. Both residents and visitors all share the common denominator of its spirit and the inspiring beauty of its natural wonders. Sedona is diverse in its paths and broad in its views. May all who journey here find an open gate to its inspiration.

Reagan Word is a local Sedona artist, author, and architect. His art spans across many mediums and he has an intuitive eye for beauty. His sculptural monument works have been installed in various parts of Sedona, notably the roundabouts. Reagan says “Beauty has always been my muse, luring me to see things in a new and unfamiliar way, challenging me to reveal more of my true self.”