Graffiti. Cans upon cans of paint transformed this abandoned mine into a vibrant canvas. Welcome to the Wheel of Misfortune.
This isn’t your typical Vegas attraction, folks. Forget the glitz and glamour of the Strip. We’re diving into the Nevada desert’s raw, unconventional art scene. The Wheel of Misfortune resides at the Three Kids Mine, a former manganese mine. It’s located about 20 miles southeast of downtown Las Vegas near Henderson.
Manganese extraction happened here between 1917 and 1961. The mine played a vital role during both World War I and World War II. The extracted manganese was used in military weapons and equipment. After the wars ended, the demand decreased and parts of the mine closed down.
Fast forward to 2012. An artist known as Aware transformed one of the old “thickener” pits into the Wheel of Misfortune. These pits were once used to leach pulp in the production of manganese. Aware based his creation on the popular game show Wheel of Fortune. However, this wheel reflects a different reality.
This wheel reflects Las Vegas after the economic crash of 2008. Instead of winning cash and prizes, you might land on “bankruptcy” or “lose a job”. The cash prizes? All “$0.00”. This artwork captures the anxieties and struggles of a city hit hard by economic hardship.
The Wheel of Misfortune is a powerful statement. It is a reminder of the boom and bust cycles that define Las Vegas. Each pit is massive, about 250 feet across. While only one features the Wheel of Misfortune, all are covered in graffiti. The entire site has become a haven for urban explorers and graffiti artists.
However, a word of caution. The Three Kids Mine is an abandoned industrial site. Environmental assessments identified dusts, residues, and processing wastes containing lead, arsenic, manganese, and petroleum. So, watch your step and maybe don’t lick the walls.
Also, there’s no official parking. Many people park at the general store near the mine. If you do, be courteous. Buy something or offer them a few dollars for parking. They can also share some history of the mine and some crazy things they’ve seen.
The Wheel of Misfortune is more than just graffiti. It’s a symbol of resilience. It’s a testament to the power of art to reflect and critique society. So, embrace the grit. Explore the unexpected. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll find a little bit of fortune amidst the misfortune.