SALVATION MOUNTAIN by Scott Bennett

Public Story

SALVATION MOUNTAIN

Copyright Scott Bennett 2023

Updated Aug 2016

Location Salvation Mountain

Topics Abandonment, Action, Activism, Arts, Beauty, Celebrations, Christianity, Civil Rights, Community, Desert, Documentary, Editorial, Education, Environment, Environmental, Faith, Fine Art, Globalization, Graffiti, Happiness, Historical, Hope, Joy, Landscape, Leonard Knight, Love, Peace, Peacekeeping, Photography, Photojournalism, Religion, Stock, Street, Travel

Salvation Mountain can be considered a cultural icon. A Mecca for pop culture fans and hipsters alike, Leonard Knight's labor and dedication over the years to promote the good news of the Bible and that "God is Love" is written all over his paint filled, colorful Mountain. I had the chance to shoot my daughter Marissa's senior portraits there (her idea and we planned a day trip) while being respectful and courteous to the physical space. After our photo shoot, I had some time at sunset to climb the mountain and explore the surroundings. My photos from the evening catch only a brief moment, and I hope they reflect the spirit, energy, and positivity of Leonard Knight's vision and legacy. I will definitely be going back, as there is much more context and culture to be witnessed there. While I only spent an evening at Salvation Mountian, another photographer has documented the mountain with passion and dedication. I highly recommend Aaron Huey's where the heaven flowers grow: the life and art of Leonard Knight (Outsider Books).