Goldwell Open Air Museum

Featuring colossal sculptures that include a ghostly life-size version of Leonardo Da Vinci’s “Last Supper,” a 25-foot woman constructed from pink cinder blocks, and a 24-foot steel prospector and his penguin companion, the Goldwell Open Air Museum is certainly no average art experience.

The astonishing outdoor sculpture park, which covers nearly eight acres just outside of Beatty, was created in 1984 by a group of well-known Belgian artists (led by the late Albert Szukalski) who were drawn to the remote upper portion of the vast Mojave Desert to pursue artistic vision free from convention. Each piece was designed within the context of the landscape and should be interpreted as such.

Since the 1980s, more permanent and temporary installations have popped up at Goldwell. Some are interactive, but visitors are highly encouraged not to sit or climb on artwork so as not to damage it. The park is open to the public all day, every day, and there is no admission fee. The Goldwell Open Air Museum also features an on-site visitor center with regular exhibits and events, as well as a small gift shop.

The nearby Red Barn Art Center offers artist residency and workspace programs, and is oriented to the artist who seeks challenging, dramatic landscapes in which to create.