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Art In Unexpected Places

Through on-mountain art installations, artwork on lift tickets and passes, works situated throughout the resort, and a series of books documenting the program’s history, Art in Unexpected Places sparks conversations and moments of unanticipated discovery.

Art in Unexpected Places at Aspen Snowmass

FriendsWithYou at Snowmass Base Village, 2020-21

The Background

Inspired by Aspen's long history as a vibrant arts and culture community, Art in Unexpected Places (ArtUP) launched in 2005 to exhibit the works of contemporary artists across our resort in unique ways. The program is grounded in the belief that artistic works should be accessible and universal—cutting across class, race, and politics—and celebrates contemporary art’s spirit of spontaneity.

For 20 years, our lift tickets have been a blank canvas and our mountains a museum. The roster of world-renowned artists we’ve hosted includes Haruki Murakami, David Shrigley, Jim Hodges, Walter Niedermayer, Rashid Johnson, Claudia Comte, and more. This year, we add Los Angeles-based creator Alex Israel to the list.
2024-25 Aspen Snowmass Lift Ticket Art by Alex Israel

Celebrating 20 Years of ArtUP

In partnership with the Aspen Art Musuem, we’re celebrating ArtUP’s 20th anniversary throughout the season. Join us as we revisit the moments of unanticipated discovery and delight that have defined the Art in Unexpected Places program for the past two decades. Long love Aspen. Long love art.  

Lift Ticket Artwork

Learn More
Artist Claudia Comte

Claudia Comte, Art, and Conversations Surrounding the Climate Crisis

The work of Swiss multi-medium artist Claudia Comte will be featured on the lift tickets for the 2023-24.

Previous Activations