Robert Morris Earthwork

Robert Morris Earthwork is a land art installation featuring concentric terraced circles carved into a reclaimed gravel pit. The design creates layered levels that descend gradually across the site.

The King County Arts Commission selected this location from numerous gravel pits in 1979 to create the first permanent land reclamation artwork in the United States. This choice marked a new approach to transforming industrial sites through art.

The design draws inspiration from Peruvian amphitheaters, incorporating descending terraces that encourage visitors to reflect on industrial land use.

The site is located south of Seattle on a reclaimed industrial property that visitors can walk through at their own pace. Moving down through the terraced levels helps you understand the full scope of the design.

Charred tree stumps form a striking edge line along the terraces, marking the boundary between the excavated and untouched ground. They serve as physical reminders of the site's industrial past.

Location: Washington

Inception: 1979

Creator: Robert Morris

GPS coordinates: 47.40750,-122.28361

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:41