Mary Miss Awarded $900,000 in Landmark Settlement with Des Moines Art Center

Renowned land artist Mary Miss has reached a $900,000 settlement with the Des Moines Art Center (DMAC) after a legal battle over her environmental artwork, “Greenwood Pond: Double Site” (1989–96). This case highlights the challenges of preserving large-scale environmental art and the responsibilities of institutions under the Visual Artists Rights Act (VARA).

Commissioned in 1989 as part of the museum’s permanent collection, “Greenwood Pond: Double Site” transformed the landscape of Greenwood Park in Des Moines, Iowa. The project guided visitors through the pond’s wetland ecology, using carefully designed pathways and sculptural elements. Built from wood and concrete, the piece was celebrated for its integration of art, environment, and community.

Over time, Iowa’s harsh climate caused significant deterioration to the materials. Although $1.4 million was allocated for repairs in 2015, the artwork fell into disrepair again. DMAC announced plans to deaccession and demolish the work in 2023, citing prohibitive repair costs of $2.65 million