Artist James Magee’s Hill: A Legacy in West Texas Awaits Its Future

A unique and enigmatic artistic landmark in West Texas, known as the Hill, now faces uncertainty following the death of its creator, artist James Magee, in 2022. Located approximately 70 miles east of El Paso, the Hill is a striking composition of four stone structures that Magee built over nearly four decades. Despite its artistic significance, the site has remained largely unknown to the broader public.

The Hill, described by a New York Times writer as potentially “the most important artwork most people have never heard of,” demands a pilgrimage from visitors. Accessing the site necessitates a challenging walk along a winding dirt road that can wash out during rain. Upon arrival, the Hill reveals its four distinctive block-like buildings, which are constructed from local stone and feature installations made of industrial materials. These abstract works suggest religious themes, creating a sense of a sacred space in the arid landscape of the Chihuahuan Desert.

Magee, who passed away at the age of 79, was not just a singular artist but a multifaceted creator. He expressed his artistic vision through three distinct personas: himself, Annabel Livermore, a painter of spiritually themed canvasses, and Horace Mayfield, an artist known for provocative homoerotic works. This complex legacy presents a challenge for his heirs, who must navigate what aspects of his life and work to preserve and share with the public.

Plans for the Hill’s Future Emerge

Before his death, Magee contemplated closing the Hill permanently but later agreed to open it to visitors under specific conditions regarding crowd control and photography. His sister, Susan Wente, emphasized the importance of sharing Magee’s work with the world while acknowledging that the Hill’s essence is intrinsically linked to Magee himself.

The future of the Hill is now being overseen by the Cornudas Mountain Foundation, which Magee established to support the site. Close friend and architect Gary “Corky” Cunningham noted that the experience of the Hill is inseparable from Magee’s presence. Plans are underway to improve accessibility, including the construction of a new walking path to facilitate visitor access while preserving the site’s integrity.

Magee’s life was as diverse as his artistic output. Originally from Fremont, Michigan, he worked as a lawyer with the United Nations before shifting to various roles, including a welder and a cab driver. His chance arrival in El Paso in the early 1980s marked the beginning of a deep connection with the community. Magee’s philanthropic efforts, including funding for fresh flowers in the chapel of the University Medical Center of El Paso, further solidified his legacy in the area.

Preserving Magee’s Artistic Vision

The maintenance and preservation of the Hill and other spaces linked to Magee will require significant funding. The El Paso Community Foundation plans to sell several properties that Magee acquired to support this initiative. Immediate projects include enhancing the walking path at the Hill and repairing the roof of El Museo Livermore, a small museum dedicated to Livermore’s work that Magee established.

Despite the challenges, the foundation currently covers 70% of the estimated annual cost of $500,000 needed for maintenance. The aim is to ensure that Magee’s artistic contributions remain accessible to both local and international audiences.

As the Hill stands as a testament to Magee’s vision, the ongoing efforts to preserve and share this remarkable site reflect a commitment to honoring his multifaceted legacy. Friends and supporters, including Eric Pearson, president of the El Paso Community Foundation, express a shared responsibility to protect and promote Magee’s work for future generations.

In sum, the Hill represents not only Magee’s artistic achievement but also a cultural landmark that invites exploration and appreciation. As plans unfold, it remains to be seen how this unique space will adapt and evolve while maintaining the spirit of its creator.