The original Hollywoodland Sign
The original Hollywoodland sign was built in 1923 as a massive billboard to promote a residential development of that name. Each letter stood 50 feet tall and 30 feet wide. Intended to be temporary and only stand for 18 months, little did we know what a beloved symbol of Los Angeles and the entertainment industry it would become. Towering over Mount Lee and the city, it grew to symbolize Hollywood’s golden era of dreams, glamour and movie making.
The “LAND” suffix was removed in 1949 to better represent the broader district. By 1978, the sign was in disrepair from decades of weathering. Playboy founder, Hugh Hefner, raised money to fund the replacement of the iconic sign with contributions by nine other donors, including Alice Cooper, Gene Autry, Andy Williams and Warner Brothers Records.
Artist Adam Scott Rote acquired metal from the original sign in 2020. Using real fragments, including cut miniature letters from the sign and stars, Rote is creating a new historic chapter in the life journey of the sign while preserving and honoring it’s story.
In his latest collection, Rote presents stunning paintings of legendary entertainers and performers that combines airbrush, acrylic inks and brushwork on canvas. His work vibrates with energy, echoing Einstein’s view that “Everything in life is a vibration.”
Each artwork is crafted layer by layer with pearlescent finishes, diamond dust, and crystal acrylic gloss. The artwork itself connects deeply to history, pieces of the original sign are transformed into stars for uniques and a bold “H” for original works. Mounted with brushed aluminum stars and a circular ingot, these elements anchor the art to its cultural legacy.
These remarkable pieces aren’t just tributes to Hollywood’s past—they’re a fresh re-imagining of its iconic spirit. Ideal for art lovers and memorabilia collectors. Each work captures the magic of Tinseltown, offering a rare opportunity to own both art and a piece of reborn history.