Wild Ride Through Land Use Politics And Art In The Changing West

The Keystone XL Pipeline: A Case Study in Land Use Politics

The proposed Keystone XL pipeline would have transported crude oil from Canada to the United States, crossing over 1,200 miles of land and potentially impacting sensitive ecosystems, water resources, and communities along its route. The project became a flashpoint for debate over land use, energy policy, and the future of the American West.

Undermining: A Wild Ride Through Land Use, Politics, and Art in the Changing West

by Lucy R. Lippard

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Language	:	English
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Supporters of the pipeline argued that it would create jobs, boost the economy, and reduce dependence on foreign oil. Opponents, however, raised concerns about the potential for environmental harm, particularly to the Ogallala Aquifer, a vital groundwater source for the region. The debate also touched on broader issues of land ownership, Native American rights, and the morality of fossil fuel extraction.

In 2015, President Obama rejected the Keystone XL permit, citing concerns about its impact on climate change. However, the project remains alive under President Trump, and construction is expected to begin soon.

Art and the Changing Landscape

The Keystone XL pipeline is just one example of the complex and often contentious issues surrounding land use in the American West. Artists have long been drawn to this region, both for its natural beauty and its social and political conflicts.

In recent years, a growing number of artists have used their work to explore the changing landscape of the West, particularly in relation to land use politics and environmental concerns. These artists often employ photography, sculpture, and other media to document and critique the ways in which human activities are shaping the region.

For example, the photographer Edward Burtynsky has created a series of large-scale photographs that depict the industrial landscapes of the West, including oil fields, mines, and logging operations. His work raises questions about the environmental and social costs of resource extraction.

Another photographer, Richard Misrach, has documented the effects of climate change on the West. His photographs show melting glaciers, receding shorelines, and other signs of environmental degradation.

The artist Trevor Paglen uses drones and other technologies to capture images of the hidden infrastructure of the West, including military bases, surveillance systems, and border walls. His work explores the ways in which technology is shaping the region's landscape and social fabric.

The Future of the West

The land use politics and art of the American West are constantly evolving. As the region faces new challenges, such as climate change, population growth, and economic development, artists will continue to play a vital role in documenting and interpreting the changing landscape.

The work of these artists can help us to understand the complex issues facing the West and to make informed decisions about the future of this iconic region.