The Story of the West Texas Prada Store In The Middle Of Nowhere

Valentine, Texas --  There is an installation in the literal middle of nowhere in West Texas that has captivated visitors and passersby for decades.  What is it?  Is it some kind of natural landform or landmark?  Well, kind of.   Actually, this is more like a cultural icon located on a roadside, deliberately placed in a rural area of Valentine, Texas.  (About 26 miles Northwest of Marfa)

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Prada Designer Store in the Middle of Nowhere Where Texas

Prada Marfa is a replica of a Prada store, a very SMALL Prada store.  While you cannot shop at this Prada store, it serves more as an art piece.  It was designed and created by Scandinavian artists Elmgreen & Dragset back in 2005 and acts as a permanent sculptural installation.  The Prada store replica mimics a real Prada store and even has real Prada handbags and shoes inside that can be seen from the storefront.  Allegedly, the piece cost around $120,000 to construct.

Why Was This Replica Built in the Marfa, Texas?

The artist has said that this art piece was built as a commentary on consumerism and luxury culture.  This initially was designed to rot away from the elements.  However, that plan was changed, and renovations happen every so often.  It has become so popular that it has been covered by the media from all over the world.

Theft and Vandalism Plagued Texas' Prada Store

Prada Marfa has seen its fair share of theft and vandalism.  The night before the artwork debuted, the piece was vandalized, and the contents were stolen.  With high-end products in plain sight located in the middle of nowhere, the temptation was sure to get someone.  In more modern times, the products are equipped with motion sensors that notify authorities if the products are moved.

Have you ever visited Prada Marfa?