The Surprising and Delightful Art of Las Vegas

When visitors come to Las Vegas, one would think the main reasons are to gamble, see the shows, gamble, drink, shop and gamble. And, well, maybe, to engage in other questionable activities...which possibly have served as the inspiration for the tag line What Happens in Vegas Stays in Vegas® .

Most likely not found on the travel itinerary would be to seek out objects of fine art.

However, this past summer during my latest trip to Vegas, I discovered that one does not need to step into an art gallery or a museum to be surrounded by unusual and beautiful works of art. Simply take a few steps on (and off) the Las Vegas "strip" and you will see a wide variety of visual treats that are unique, edgy and beautiful enough to be art.

Yes, "Sin City" has grown up and is displaying an array of sophistication. While the city continues its evolution of real estate development, unveiling the new City Center, the Aria, Encore, and others, creating a new and blank canvas for artists to make their mark.

What surprised me, was the different types of media used by these artists to create wonderful, imaginative and beautiful displays of art...from floral to chocolate. My visit to Las Vegas was brief, and I believe I have only scratched the surface of the art that is waiting around almost every corner.

The Bellagio Conservatory has become famous for its themed floral exhibits. The theme changes with the seasons, and this summer featured a patriotic, carnival and a whimsical nature display called: Summer Garden Exhibit 2011.

Artist Nancy Rubens designed and supervised construction of this unique and beautiful outdoor sculpture consisting of boats. More than 200 canoes, row-boats, skiffs and flat-bottom boats are arranged in an almost natural random order. Pieced together with steel wires, the colors and shape dazzles like a sparkler on the Fourth of July.

Most likely only us Baby Boomers recognize this Giant Typewriter Eraser. A whimsical piece reminiscent of the old fashioned way to correct a typo before whiteout was invented. This work of art was designed by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, and featured outside the City Center.

Made of stainless steel and fiberglass, the eraser stands 19' 4" tall by 11' 11 1/2" wide, and weighs four tons.

Since 2004, Fremont Street in old town Las Vegas has been alive with dancing lights and fabulous music. Thanks to Viva Vision - a state of the art light and animation display.

The "canvas" is an overhead canopy that runs the length of the street, or the equivalent of five football fields.