Skiers will find sculptures and art installations awaiting them on the slopes
Utah’s Powder Mountain ski resort is reaching out to those interested in partaking in the art of schussing while being able to appreciate art while schussing. The resort has decided to create what is being billed as a large-scale open-air museum and sculpture park on the 12,100-acre mountain.
The project is enabling visitors to experience site-specific artwork integrated throughout the terrain, with access being free and open to the public for hiking and biking during summer and fall, and skiable with a season pass or lift ticket during the winter.
“At Powder, we want every experience – from the ski resort to the residential community to the outdoor art museum – to be intentional, and the integration of art into the mountain is a manifestation of that consideration. We aim to transform Powder into a muslt-season destination that blends recreation, art and meaningful connection into our entire resort community,” says Reed Hastings, Powder Mountain chairman.
“As of now, there are several installations in place, with more planned for the future. The museum is set to have its full-scale grand opening in 2026, but visitors can experience some installations during the 2024–2025 ski season,” adds Taylor Hartman of Visit Ogden.
Powder Mountain is found just outside Ogden.
“The artworks are integrated throughout the mountain’s terrain, including along ski trails and near lift systems. For example, James Turrell’s light installation, Ganzfeld Apani, will be housed in a pavilion situated along the mountain’s ski slopes and bike trails,” Hartman continues.
New art installations are being added annually, with primarily winter visitation.
Tourism authorities say the land art movement has strong ties to Utah and renowned artists such as Nancy Holt, whose Sun Tunnels sit on the opposite side of the Great Salt Lake from the resort, have been commissioned.
Powder Mountain is also found in a region home to ancient petroglyphs.
The resort says it’s aiming to attract visitors who love art as much as skiing, and it plans to ensure guests can view some of the installations regardless of mobility levels. Works by female, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ artists will be featured.
Hartman labels the project “pioneering. Powder Mountain is among the first ski resorts to integrate large-scale, permanent art installations directly into the skiing experience, creating a seamless blend of outdoor recreation and contemporary art.”
He says the installations are thoughtfully integrated into the landscape to ensure safety of skiers and bikers. “For instance, artist EJ Hill is designing ski lifts that function as sculptural elements, enhancing the aesthetic experience without posing risks to skiers.”
“The installations are designed to be both visually striking and seamlessly integrated into the skiing experience, encouraging skiers to engage with the art, whether by pausing to appreciate it or noticing it as they glide by. The unique integration aims to enrich the overall experience for visitors.”
Meanwhile, Hartman is confident that there’s no shortage of skiers who are appreciative of art.
“Skiers come from diverse backgrounds with varied interests,” he states. “By integrating art into the skiing experience, Powder Mountain aims to offer an enriched environment that appeals to both art enthusiasts and those who may discover a new appreciation for contemporary art through this unique fusion.”
