13 Gigantic Land Art Installations That Transform the Landscape into Canvas

By

Lisette Marie

June 13, 2025

7. The Desert Breath: A Vortex of Sand

Desert Breath. Photo Credit: Colossal @Colossal

In the Egyptian desert near the Red Sea, Desert Breath stands as a testament to the transformative power of art and nature. Created by the D.A.ST. Arteam in 1997, this land art installation consists of two interlocking spirals of sand, one ascending and the other descending, covering an area of over 1 million square feet. The spirals create a vortex-like effect, drawing viewers into the heart of the desert landscape. Desert Breath challenges perceptions of scale and perspective, inviting contemplation of the vastness and mystery of the natural world. As the desert winds gradually erode the installation, it becomes a living artwork that evolves with the environment. This ephemeral quality underscores the impermanence of human creations and the enduring power of nature, prompting reflection on the passage of time and the interconnectedness of all things.

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