There isn’t a better outdoor photo opportunity than the monumental Seven Magic Mountains!
Ugo Rondinone’s Spectacle in the Desert
In the vast expanse of the Mojave Desert, Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone has crafted a captivating oasis of color and form known as Seven Magic Mountains. This public art installation is situated approximately ten miles south of the Las Vegas Strip. Its vibrant sculptures contrast beautifully against the desert backdrop, and it is a popular attraction for travelers.
An Artist’s Vision Unveiled
Renowned for his diverse artistic endeavors, Ugo Rondinone brings a distinct flair to the Seven Magic Mountains. With towering structures comprised of stacked, brightly painted boulders, the installation stands as a testament to the artist’s exploration of the intersection between humanity and nature. Rondinone’s work echoes the traditions of Land Art and rock balancing, drawing inspiration from the natural world while offering a modern, poetic burst of color.
Crafting the Desert Mirage
The installation comprises seven individual sculptures, each reaching heights of over thirty feet, strategically placed within the Ivanpah Valley. These structures, resembling hoodoos and cairns, create a striking contrast with the surrounding mountains and valleys. The bright fluorescent colors, including pink, yellow, blue, green, orange, purple, and red, are meticulously applied to create a stunning contrast against the muted tones of the desert.
Getting to the Seven Magic Mountains
Travelers seeking respite from the neon lights of the Las Vegas Strip can embark on a scenic 23-minute drive to discover the Seven Magic Mountains. Accessible by a short dirt road, the installation welcomes visitors, providing a unique opportunity to engage with the artwork and the natural landscape. As spectators wander amidst the sculptures, a sense of awe and contemplation is evoked, creating a momentary escape from the hustle and bustle.
Impact and Recognition
The impact of Seven Magic Mountains extends beyond its visual allure. Recognized with prestigious awards, including the 2017 Americans for the Arts Public Art Network Year in Review Award, the installation has become a cultural landmark. Drawing millions of global visitors, it has proven to be an economic and artistic boon for the region. Moreover, it stands as a testament to the harmonious convergence of art and nature in a remote yet accessible location.
A Transcendent Experience
Seven Magic Mountains stands as a beacon of artistic ingenuity in the heart of the desert. Ugo Rondinone’s vision, coupled with the support of the Nevada Museum of Art and the Art Production Fund, transformed the landscape into a haven for creativity and contemplation. As visitors revel in the spectacle, they are reminded of the profound connection between art, nature, and the enduring spirit of the Mojave Desert.
Admission: Access to the installation is free and open to the public.
Hours: The site is open to visitors between 6:00 am and 8:30 pm daily
Address: Las Vegas Boulevard, South, Jean, NV 89054
Phone: (702) 381-5182
Getting There
Seven Magic Mountains is near the Jean Dry Lake Bed and Interstate 15, approximately ten miles south of the Las Vegas Strip.
From Las Vegas: Take exit 25 for Sloan Rd from I-15 S. Turn left onto Sloan Rd, then turn left onto Las Vegas Blvd. After about 7 miles, you will see the artwork on your left.
From Los Angeles: Take exit 12 from I-15 and drive east on NV-161 towards Las Vegas Blvd. After approximately 5 miles, the artwork will appear on your right.
Please park in the onsite parking lot. Street parking is discouraged. No public transportation is available to the installation site.
Hollywood History Nearby
It’s interesting to note that Jean, Nevada, has been featured in popular movies, music videos, and video games produced in Hollywood.
- Lionheart, a 1990 film featuring Jean-Claude VanDamme
- Casino, a 1995 film
- Vegas Vacation, a 1997 film
- Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, a 1998 film
- Pearl Harbor, a 2001 film
- The Hangover, a 2009 film
- The Master, a 2012 film
- Absolute Dominion, a Netflix film set to release in 2022
- Kelsey Ballerini’s music video for Peter Pan, released in 2015
- Fallout: New Vegas, a 2010 video game
