The Lightning Field

The Lightning Field, 1977, by the American sculptor Walter De Maria

http://www.lightningfield.org/

The Lightning Field, 1977, by the American sculptor Walter De Maria, is recognized internationally as one of the late-twentieth century's most significant works of art. Commissioned and maintained for public viewing by Dia Art Foundation, The Lightning Field exemplifies Dia's commitment to the support of art projects whose nature and scale exceed the limits normally available within the traditional museum or gallery. Dia also maintains two other of De Maria's projects, both located in New York City: The Broken Kilometer, 1979, and The New York Earth Room, 1977.

A work of Land Art situated in a remote area of the high desert of southwestern New Mexico, The Lightning Field is comprised of 400 polished stainless steel poles installed in a grid array measuring one mile by one kilometer. The poles, two inches in diameter and averaging 20 feet by 7 1/2 inches in height, are spaced 220 feet apart and have solid pointed tips that define a horizontal plane. Since it is intended that visitors experience The Lightning Field alone or with a small group of people over an extended period of time, Dia provides simple accommodations for up to six people for overnight visits during the months of May through October.

Home Page