The Spiral Jetty is an example of which type of art?

The Spiral Jetty is best classified as environmental art due to its direct engagement with the natural landscape and its integration into the environment. Created by artist Robert Smithson in 1970, the work is a large earthwork sculpture constructed from mud, salt crystals, and basalt rocks, situated at the edge of the Great Salt Lake in Utah.

Environmental art emphasizes the connection between art and the natural world, often seeking to highlight, celebrate, or critique nature and human interaction with it. The Spiral Jetty not only alters the physical landscape but also invites viewers to consider the ecological and geological changes of the area, showcasing the interplay between art and nature.

While it could be seen as an installation due to its location and physical presence, the primary focus on environmental themes and interaction with the landscape firmly positions Spiral Jetty within the realm of environmental art. Other art forms mentioned, such as performance art and pop art, do not encapsulate the intent and characteristics exhibited by the Spiral Jetty.