Utah’s Powder Mountain to Become a Skiable Outdoor Art Museum

Utah’s Powder Mountain, renowned for its skiing, is now making a significant shift into the art scene.

The resort recently announced the forthcoming launch of an open-air sculpture and art park. This outdoor museum is one of many new ventures being spearheaded by Reed Hastings, the former CEO of Netflix, who took over Powder Mountain last year. While select artworks will be unveiled during the upcoming ski season, a grand opening is planned for 2026.

“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,” Hastings said. “We aim to transform Powder into a multi-season destination that blends recreation, art, and meaningful connection for our entire community.”

The envisioned outdoor museum is being designed by landscape architect firm Reed Hilderbrand, known for their work on New York’s Storm King Art Center. Meanwhile, the visitor center design is being managed by Johnston Marklee, the architects behind the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago. Matthew Thompson, the curator serving as the director of the mountain’s arts program, has collaborated with several others to develop the museum’s initial plan.

The initial display will feature a limited number of artworks, including a site-specific commission by artist EJ Hill. But the mountain will eventually showcase numerous pieces from renowned artists such as James Turrell, Jenny Holzer, Nancy Holt, and Paul McCarthy. McCarthy, in particular, is working on an immersive project inspired by the mythology of the American West.

“I grew up in Utah, and the influence of Utah and its mountains has been a critical part of my work. A core subject, sitting in both my subconscious and conscious mind,” McCarthy shared. “I am excited to have the opportunity to realize a work in that landscape and to be a part of building something special at Powder Mountain.”

Following his acquisition of the mountain, Hastings made headlines with his plan to convert half of Powder Mountain into a members-only ski club with lots starting at $2 million. Additionally, he introduced higher prices for public ski passes. However, the mountain and museum will remain free and accessible to the public during summer and fall. This blend of world-class skiing and world-class art promises to elevate the Powder Mountain experience for all visitors.

Source: Robb Report