Kayenta
In America, few communities are grander than Kayenta. Kayenta, located in southern Utah, is known for its majestic natural beauty. The clay-colored landscapes, rolling grasslands and majestic red rock cliffs impart an almost spiritual sense of inner peace. The gorgeously shot documentary Kayenta tells the story of this ever-evolving desert dreamland and the people who inhabit it.
When developer Terry Marten first visited the area in 1968, he was immediately struck by its breathtaking beauty. He was quickly seized by a crazy idea. How about living there? For most people, life in the desert is an illogical thing. But with a knack for innovative design and a passion for the great outdoors, Marten is committed to unlocking the region’s untapped potential.
The point is to make each home feel like it was born from the land. This resulted in the building being built very low to the ground, with a dark earthy exterior colour. It requires areas of the home to be subtly shaded from the sun and rely on solar power. Marten built his first home in the desert in 1982, laying the groundwork for everything that came after. Striking without being ostentatious or ostentatious, the building enjoys views of its surroundings and seems to belong to its natural surroundings.
Today, his decade-long realization of an impossible dream has grown into a community of more than 500 families. The film introduces us to some of the residents and explores their motivations for choosing to live there. Each of them has a chance to escape the chaos of city life. You will find elegance in the 360 degree views, the cradle offered by the mountains and the joy of light and shadow. Their spacious desert home feels secluded and private, but the sense of community among their roommates is strong. The stunning aesthetics have attracted a variety of artists to the area, each interpreting the environment through their own unique style.
With its riveting score and appreciation for the transformative magic of architecture, Kayenta is a deeply enjoyable and soothing experience.
Directed by: Chibi Moku
