
Earthwork 2011
"A tractor his brush. The crops his paint. New York City his Canvas."
In 1994, visionary crop artist Stan Herd journeyed from the heartland of Kansas to the bustling streets of New York City's Upper West Side, transforming an unlikely urban plot into a living canvas.
Director: Chris Ordal
Cast






Frequently Asked Questions
What is Earthwork (2011) about?
Earthwork follows real-life crop artist Stan Herd as he creates a massive environmental artwork in Manhattan's Upper West Side in 1994. Using soil, plants, and local crew members, including homeless individuals from nearby tunnels, Stan transforms an unlikely urban space into a living canvas. The film documents his struggles and triumphs in bringing rural artistry to the city.
Who directed Earthwork?
Earthwork was directed by Chris Ordal, a filmmaker known for his work in documentary storytelling.
Who stars in Earthwork?
The film features John Hawkes, Zach Grenier, Bruce MacVittie, Chris Bachand, and Scott Allegrucci in key roles.
Is Earthwork (2011) worth watching?
Earthwork is a compelling watch for fans of true stories and art-driven narratives. While unrated on IMDb, its authentic portrayal of perseverance and creativity makes it a unique addition to the drama genre. The film's themes and real-life backstory give it an intriguing edge.
How long is Earthwork?
Earthwork runs for 93 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
Earthwork (2011): The True Story of One Man's Urban Masterpiece — Full Movie Info
In 1994, visionary crop artist Stan Herd journeyed from the heartland of Kansas to the bustling streets of New York City's Upper West Side, transforming an unlikely urban plot into a living canvas. Earthwork (2011), directed by Chris Ordal, captures this extraordinary real-life adventure as Stan crafts a sprawling environmental artwork using soil, stones, and vegetation—right beside a subway tunnel and owned by none other than Donald Trump. With the help of a crew of homeless individuals living in the tunnel, Stan turns New York City itself into a stage for his rural artistry, battling logistical nightmares and creative challenges along the way. The film blends gritty urban realism with the quiet beauty of nature, exploring themes of perseverance, artistic vision, and the unexpected intersections of art and life.
Ordals documentary immerses viewers in the raw, unpolished world of environmental art, where a tractor becomes a paintbrush and the land itself the medium. Earthwork (2011) is a story of resilience, community, and the transformative power of creativity, unfolding against the backdrop of a city that never sleeps.