Landscapes of Extraction: The Art of Mining in the American West

The book Landscapes of Extraction explores the art of mining in the American West, competing with the natural scenic landscape on its own terms. It features four scholarly essays that showcase how artists portrayed the mining industry and its impact on communities and landscapes.

Format: Hardback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 28 April 2022
Publisher: Hirmer Verlag

Landscapes of Extraction delves into the captivating world of mining, a transformative industry that has left an indelible mark on the American West. In this artistic exploration, the mining landscapes stand in stark contrast to the awe-inspiring natural scenic landscape, engaging in a sublime and vibrant competition. These landscapes of enterprise have undergone a remarkable transformation, characterized by the presence of open pit mines, towering coal tipples, and bustling oil rigs.

The book, comprising four scholarly essays, delves into the diverse ways in which artists have portrayed the mining industry in the American West. These artworks draw inspiration from the multifaceted landscapes created by large-scale mining, encompassing not only the mines themselves but also the towns that sprouted up around them, as well as the miners and their families who inhabited and worked within these communities.

The mining industry exerted a profound influence on the shaping of communities and landscapes throughout the West. From Arizona to California, Colorado to Montana, New Mexico to Nevada, Oklahoma to Texas, and Utah, these landscapes have been transformed by the industry's presence. Landscapes of Extraction serves as a testament to the powerful regional narrative that forms an integral part of national identity, unfolding on a vast geographical scale.

Through the lens of art, Landscapes of Extraction offers a unique perspective on the complexities and challenges faced by the mining industry and its impact on the environment and society. It sheds light on the human stories and experiences that have unfolded within these landscapes, highlighting the resilience, determination, and cultural richness of the communities that have been shaped by mining.

In conclusion, Landscapes of Extraction is a captivating exploration of the art of mining and its profound impact on the American West. It invites us to appreciate the intricate interplay between human enterprise and the natural world, showcasing the remarkable ways in which mining landscapes have shaped communities, landscapes, and national identity.

Weight: 1104g
Dimension: 242 x 279 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783777437538