500 Mile Sculpture Garden | America 250

In 1976, the state of Nebraska set out to transform Interstate 80 into a bold cultural statement, an ambitious statewide art installation designed to be experienced by millions of travelers each year. What followed was far more than a public art project. It became a cultural flashpoint. “Five-Hundred-Mile Sculpture Garden” chronicles the dramatic and often contentious journey of the Nebraska Bicentennial Sculpture Project, from its visionary launch to its explosive public reception and ultimate July 4 dedication. This powerful 1976 documentary captures a moment when modern art collided with Midwestern values, sparking debate over public funding, artistic merit, and regional identity. Spanning from Omaha to Kimball, the film follows the creation of ten monumental sculptures placed along Interstate 80. After a national competition drew more than 120 artists, controversy erupted when all selected sculptors were from outside Nebraska, prompting an official investigation by the Nebraska Unicameral. Through public hearings, legislative debates, and community reactions, this film offers a rare look at democracy, art, and identity in conflict. This video is part of our #America250 collection, featuring documentaries from our archives exploring the history of our nation and Nebraska’s place in it. From pioneer roots and agricultural heritage to politics, civic life and the arts, these programs preserve the past and deepen our understanding of a shared story. ▶️ Watch more:    • America 250   ▶️ Watch our NEW series to see the sculptures 50 years later:    • I-80 Sculptures   Discover more about Nebraska Public Media Archives: https://NebraskaPublicMedia.org/archives © 1976 Nebraska Public Media Foundation. All rights reserved FOLLOW US: YouTube:    / nebraskapublicmedia   Facebook:   / nebraskapublicmedia   X (Formerly Twitter): https://x.com/NebPublicMedia Instagram:   / nebraskapublicmedia   Website: https://NebraskaPublicMedia.org