Panoramic Photograph of Cadillac Ranch – Iconic Roadside Attraction in Amarillo, Texas Landmark, Route 66 Art

As you drive west of Amarillo in the panhandle of Texas along the historic Route 66, you will see 10 late model Cadillacs rising up out of the ground.  It is actually an art sculpture created by the group Ant Farm (Chip Lord, Hudson Marquez and Doug Michels) back in 1974.  Stanley Marsh 3, artist / philanthropist from Amarillo financed the project.

Visitors are encouraged to contribute to the art installation by adding their own artistic talents using spray paint (cans of which are all around the site).  Occasionally, the cars are all painted the same color in recognition of some event.  Upon the passing of one of the artists, the cars were all painted flat black.  Within just a few hours, though, new colors began to appear again.

I made this image in the summer of 2012 by taking a Photo of each car individually, standing in the same spot.  Then, using sophisticated stitching software, I was able to combine them all to create the single image you see here.  Since there is a constant flow of visitors to the site, it was difficult to take a single photo without people walking around the cars.  By taking individual photos, I was able to wait until each car cleared of people.  Additionally, I am able to create very large prints with great resolution.

I recently returned to the sculpture to attempt an updated series of images.  There is a significant difference in the appearance of the artwork.  Over the 11+ years since I was last there, about 6-inches of additional paint has been applied.  It is quite noticeable. I felt it detracted from the scene, so I was not able to update my image.

Note:  The display image may suggest the print is soft and low resolution.  Please be assured that the final product is a very high resolution and looks AMAZING.