The West
1987
Donald Lipski
American, born 1947
About:
Donald Lipski transforms mundane objects into whimsical art. In “The West,” two five-foot buoys, once navigational aids, are stranded on land, tethered meaninglessly. Lipski adorns them with corroded pennies, symbolizing capitalism’s sway. This playful yet profound installation challenges Western values and global economics. By repurposing familiar items in surprising ways, Lipski invites viewers to reconsider the ordinary and reflect on the deeper implications of everyday life.
Directions/Location:
GPS Coordinates: 30.285636,-97.738276
Monochrome for Austin
2015
Nancy Rubins
American, born 1952
About:
This sculpture features seventy recycled aluminum canoes and small boats clustered at the base of a tilted column. It evokes a sense of mass and scale similar to the perfect timing of a musical performer. Rubins’ sculptures blend delicate intricacy with unyielding strength, a dichotomy that becomes more pronounced when experienced in the outdoors.
Directions/Location:
GPS Coordinates: 30.287462, -97.737132
Longhorn Sculpture at Texas Exes Alumni Center
About: The sculpture is located at The Etter-Harbin Alumni Center, which serves as the gathering place for alumni and friends to stay connected to the university and each other. It’s a popular spot for outdoor events and is home to many other iconic sculptures.
Directions/Location:
GPS Coordinates: 30.28855, -97.73374
Clark Field Track
About:
Not a sculpture, but a landmark (recommended by the events team) that you should see on this running/walking tour. Do a few laps to increase your total steps for the day!
Directions/Location:
GPS Coordinates: 30.287462, -97.737132
The Pedals
2018 – 2023
Snøhetta
About: This installation features a series of 12 three-story-tall- sculptures, resembling flowers, that rise from the Blanton Art Museum Moody patio. These pedals not only provide shade but also filter light through the perforated patterns onto the ground and surrounding buildings. During rainfall, water funnels through these patterns, eventually reaching an underground collection system. Snøhetta’s design of this installation aims to “unify the museum campus with the city’s prominent avenue through a choreography of planting, geometry, and art.”
Directions/Location:
GPS Coordinates: 30.28100, -97.73766
Austin
2018
Ellsworth Kelly
About:
The pavilion, Kelly’s sole freestanding building, stands as a testament to his renowned colorful and minimalist style. Inspired by a sketch of a French chapel from his 1948-1954 stay, the idea evolved into a three-dimensional form over time. Gifted to The Blanton Museum of Art at the University of Texas in Austin, Kelly’s design was realized through a $23 million fundraising effort. Though resembling a chapel, the pavilion represents joy and contemplation rather than adhering to any specific religious agenda.
Directions/Location:
GPS Coordinates: 30.28100, -97.73766
The Texas Longhorns
at the Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium
About: Because football is a favorite sport by many and we’re touring the Texas A&M campus, this spot is a must-visit. If time is limited, seek out a painted longhorn somewhere on campus and envision the vibrant atmosphere of a fall game with the sounds and sights of a roaring crowd.
Directions/Location:
GPS Coordinates: 30.28422, -97.73199