Levitated Mass 2014

LEVITATED MASS explores the intriguing journey of a rock star—not in the musical sense, but as the artistic force behind a remarkable phenomenon. The narrative centers around renowned land artist Michael Heizer’s Levitated Mass, a monumental $10 million tour spanning 22 cities, which ignited an unexpected international media frenzy. Notably displayed at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), the Levitated Mass installation drew global attention during its awe-inspiring setup in 2012.

Over the course of ten nights, a massive 340-ton granite boulder made its way through the streets of Southern California on a 294-foot-long, 206-wheeled trailer. The sight captivated thousands, as camera crews and onlookers lined the route to witness this remarkable feat. Citizens from various neighborhoods emerged to observe the megalith’s journey to its final destination—a specially designed 456-foot-long negative space formed by a concrete slot, elevating it high above their heads.

This striking artistic endeavor stands as one of the few recent works to evoke such fervent public interest and cultural discourse, bringing together artists, government representatives, and everyday citizens. The film delves deep into Heizer’s unwavering dedication to his work, weaving together his captivating biography with the origins of the art, which was initially conceived in 1968. It paints a vivid picture of the aspirations of a major museum while examining the profound connections forged among a community. Throughout the exploration, an essential question resonates: “What is art?” This film invites the audience to reflect on art’s impact and the collective conversation it ignites, making LEVITATED MASS a thought-provoking piece that bridges creativity and public sentiment.