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Art in the wild: 23 public installations to see this fall

Works that transform the city

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The City of Austin’s Art in Public Places Program, part of the Cultural Arts Division, got the bright idea about six years ago to enhance its focus on public artwork with TEMPO: a program of thought-provoking works by local artists that transform city spaces and catalyze community engagement—movable and exhibited in public spaces around the city for a limited amount of time. It’s a sort of pulse-checking, if you will.

This year, the program is more robust than ever and features more artworks than in any previous year. In addition to the usual 10 installation pieces that will be viewable in every central-city council district, it sponsors Tempo 2D—a mural program—and, for the first time, Tempo Refresh, a project focused on rethinking and reinventing existing public works to speak to the current the city’s current state and mood.

The map here is of a mix of all three projects, in order from north to south. Descriptions are quoted directly from TEMPO materials. Immerse yourselves!

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‘Asclepius Ecclisia’ by Jamie Spinello, Milwood Branch, Austin Public Library

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“Approximately 20 time larger than life, this abstraction features a native Antelopehorn Milkweed, currently under threat due to expanding development. To support our local ecosystem, the artist asks viewers to consider adding this valuable pollinator plant to their own gardens.”

A work of art called Asclepius Ecclisia by Jamie Spinello. This is a metallic sculpture of a plant on a concrete platform in a clearing surrounded by trees.
Asclepius Ecclisia by Jamie Spinello
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Safety First World’ by Rebekah Rauser, Hubert C. Schroeter Neighborhood Park Trail

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“By combining playground forms with foreign landmine markers, the artist prompts the viewer to reflect on the daily concerns of people who live in war-torn countries.”

A work of art called Safety First World by Rebekah Rauser. There are multiple poles and an abstract shape emerging.
Safety First World by Rebekah Rauser
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Canis Major’ by Lawrence Jolly, Bull Creek District Park

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“Inspired by the constella on Canis Major—the Great Dog—this playful sculpture is made up of large “tennis balls” arranged in the pattern of the constellation. Bright yellow fiberglass spheres are connected by polyvinyl chloride rods that have been painted blue. 

‘Sunset’ by Christine Angelone and Alexander Bingham

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“This mural was inspired by the natural landscape of the Hill Country and features a fiery Texas sunset.” TEMPO 2D

A wall with a mural of a sunset on it. The wall is outside.
‘Sunset’ by Christine Angelone and Alexander Bingham
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Untitled (these united states)’ by Adrian Aguilera and Betelhem Makonnen, St. John Branch, Austin Public Library

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“Highlighting the idea that our differences are what tie us together, artists Aguilera and Makonnen have reinterpreted the American flag using acrylic and “blind spot” mirrors. The artists feel our collective identity is not fixed and that change through exchange with others is our strength.” 

‘TURN’ by Adreon Henry, Bartholomew Municipal Pool

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“The design of this vinyl-wrap artwork incorporates patterns that celebrate life in Austin: a pecan tree pattern, a lap-lane pattern, and a music performance pattern.” TEMPO 2D

A work of art called ‘TURN’ by Adreon Henry. There is a large vinyl wrapped structure with a pattern on it.
‘TURN’ by Adreon Henry
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Meander’ by Flash Collective

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“With large and vibrant graphic symbols, this mural creates visibility for themes important to Austin’s LGBTQIA+ community in a welcoming and inclusive manner. TEMPO 2D

A work of art called ‘Meander’ by Flash Collective.  This is a mural with a colorful graphic pattern.
‘Meander’ by Flash Collective
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Mostly Locals’ by Show Goat Mural Works, Eiland/Moss BMX/Skate Park

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“This mural, located on walls throughout the skate park, blends graphic design and cartoons to create lighthearted imagery.” TEMPO 2D

‘Ghost House’ by Nick Schnitzer, Givens District Park

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“Modeled after a typical family home from the local neighborhood, this wire-frame structure is see-through, giving the work a fleeting or ghostly quality. The brightly-colored lines draw the eye, asking viewers to reconcile the illusory quality with the disappearing homes this sculpture references.”

This is a work of art called Ghost House by Nick Schnitzer. It is a yellow frame of a house in a field.
Ghost House by Nick Schnitzer
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Shudder’ by Adam Owens, Wooldridge Square

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“Shudder reveals elemental forces we often take for granted. As the wind blows across the sculpture and sunlight hits it, individual surface discs shudder and flare, illuminating the constant natural forces we often ignore in our busy modern lifestyles.” 

A work of art called Shudder by Adam Owens. An oval pane of glass reflects light to a platform below.
Shudder by Adam Owens
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Mirror Cloud’ by Elizabeth Farrell and Clare van Montfrans, Austin Nature & Science Center

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“Heightening awareness of nature by presenting it in a new way, Mirror Cloud reflects the environment and the viewer through a series of mirror-finish stainless steel surfaces. Up close, the mirrors create a kaleidoscope in the sky.” 

A work of art called Mirror Cloud by Elizabeth Farrell and Clare van Montfrans. Multiple stainless steel structures hang from a steel frame.
Mirror Cloud by Elizabeth Farrell and Clare van Montfrans
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Wild Imaginations’ by Jesse Melanson, Austin Nature & Science Center

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“This colorful artwork will circumscribe a skylight located within the Austin Nature and Science Center. Imagery for the mural is drawn from a photography workshop with participants of the center’s youth summer programs.” TEMPO 2D

A work of art called ‘Wild Imaginations’ by Jesse Melanson. This is a mural with a colorful outdoor scene.
‘Wild Imaginations’ by Jesse Melanson
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Low on the Treble’ by Kel Brown, Rosewood Neighborhood Park

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“The high-contrast, geometric design of this dynamic mural complements the lines of the tennis courts while also mimicking the playfulness of the park playground.” TEMPO 2D

A work of art called ‘Low on the Treble’ by Kel Brown. This is a mural with a black and white geometric pattern.
‘Low on the Treble’ by Kel Brown
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Eye Eat Sun Shine’ by Jonathan ‘Chaka’ Mahone, Austin Public

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“Inspiration for the mural on the exterior of Austin Public came from conversations between the artists and community members. The neighborhood expressed a desire for art that represented East Austin as a beacon for culture. The mural, featuring a vibrant sunflower framed by Texas musician Kenny Dorham, celebrates the history of Austin and radiates light out into the world.” TEMPO 2D

A mural depicting two people playing musical horn instruments on both sides of a flower in a vase.
‘Eye Eat Sun Shine’ by Jonathan ‘Chaka’ Mahone, Austin Public
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Moments’ refreshed by Laurie Frick

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Tempo Refresh is a new Art in Public Places initiative, created to complement the program’s character by commissioning a refurbishment or reimagining of existing public art. Most Austinites are familiar with Carl Trominski’s Moments—more commonly thought of as the reflective blue signs installed under the Lamar Bridge, now more than a decade old. This year, it was the project targeted for refreshment, resulting in a mural that incorporates the signs and expands on their history.

A colorful mural on a wall.
‘Moments’ refreshed by Laurie Frick
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Reflecting Well’ by Rebecca Rothfuss Harrell, Jamie Odom Gazebo at Town Lake Metro Park 

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“This abstract mural that complements both the natural and built environment. Its colors reflect the glass of downtown buildings and the waterfront of Town Lake, with shapes that represent minerals and stones—such as celestine and limestone—found in Central Texas.” TEMPO 2D

‘The OG Austinite’ by Luis Angulo

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“Adjacent to Barton Springs Pool and Zilker Park, this mural showcases the endangered Barton Springs Salamander.” TEMPO 2D

A colorful mural.
‘The OG Austinite’ by Luis Angulo
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Bolm Road’ by Matthew Briar Bonifacio Rodriguez

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“Based on conversations the artist had with residents of the Govalle neighborhood, this mural incorporates easily recognizable themes that resonate with the community.” TEMPO 2D

A colorful mural on a wall.
‘Bolm Road’ by Matthew Briar Bonifacio Rodriguez
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Astron’ by Nathan Nordstrom and Peter Krsko, Longview Neighborhood Park

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“This sculpture celebrates our celestial origins as star dust. Viewers are invited to step into Astron to find the connection between the constellations and themselves. Color by color, Nordstrom brings multi-dimensional expressions to the wood-and-lath form created by Krsko.”

A work of art called Astron by Nathan Nordstrom and Peter Krsko. There are multiple colorful structures.
Astron by Nathan Nordstrom and Peter Krsko
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Color Field’ by Augustina Rodriguez, Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Metro Park

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“Symbolizing the cultural bounty of the Guerrero Park community, a field of brightly-colored fiberglass rods are installed along Grove Boulevard, surprising viewers as they pass the park. The 12-foot x 75-field references growth and is a commentary on optimism in spite of hardship.”

A work of art called Color Field by Augustina Rodriguez. Colorful rods are interspersed with the grass in a field.
Color Field by Augustina Rodriguez
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Reverse Invaders’ by Lance Bradley, Mabel Davis Skate Park and Pool

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“This imaginative mural design, executed In the energetic style of sketchbook drawings, blurs the boundary between real and surreal.” TEMPO 2D

A mural on a wall.
‘Reverse Invaders’ by Lance Bradley
Philip Rogers Photography

‘A Place to Call Home’ by Rakhee Jain, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport

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“Located in the Barbara Jordan Terminal of the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, this fiber-based artwork explores the idea of Austin as a welcoming place for all. Using a wax and dye patterning process known as batik, the artist worked with members of Austin’s immigrant community to create the final design.” TEMPO 2D

A colorful mural on a wall.
‘A Place to Call Home’ by Rakhee Jain
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Sunbrella’ by Allyson Lipkin, Pleasant Hill Branch, Austin Public Library

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“Through the installation of three sculptures, Lipkin hopes to highlight the value of green open spaces within our growing city. Made of warm-fused, colored glass and aluminum, these beach umbrella sculptures are arranged in a triangle, defining a space for relaxation.”

A work of art called ‘Sunbrella’ by Allyson Lipkin. Multiple colorful umbrellas are situated in a field of grass.
‘Sunbrella’ by Allyson Lipkin
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Asclepius Ecclisia’ by Jamie Spinello, Milwood Branch, Austin Public Library

“Approximately 20 time larger than life, this abstraction features a native Antelopehorn Milkweed, currently under threat due to expanding development. To support our local ecosystem, the artist asks viewers to consider adding this valuable pollinator plant to their own gardens.”

A work of art called Asclepius Ecclisia by Jamie Spinello. This is a metallic sculpture of a plant on a concrete platform in a clearing surrounded by trees.
Asclepius Ecclisia by Jamie Spinello
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Safety First World’ by Rebekah Rauser, Hubert C. Schroeter Neighborhood Park Trail

“By combining playground forms with foreign landmine markers, the artist prompts the viewer to reflect on the daily concerns of people who live in war-torn countries.”

A work of art called Safety First World by Rebekah Rauser. There are multiple poles and an abstract shape emerging.
Safety First World by Rebekah Rauser
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Canis Major’ by Lawrence Jolly, Bull Creek District Park

“Inspired by the constella on Canis Major—the Great Dog—this playful sculpture is made up of large “tennis balls” arranged in the pattern of the constellation. Bright yellow fiberglass spheres are connected by polyvinyl chloride rods that have been painted blue. 

‘Sunset’ by Christine Angelone and Alexander Bingham

“This mural was inspired by the natural landscape of the Hill Country and features a fiery Texas sunset.” TEMPO 2D

A wall with a mural of a sunset on it. The wall is outside.
‘Sunset’ by Christine Angelone and Alexander Bingham
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Untitled (these united states)’ by Adrian Aguilera and Betelhem Makonnen, St. John Branch, Austin Public Library

“Highlighting the idea that our differences are what tie us together, artists Aguilera and Makonnen have reinterpreted the American flag using acrylic and “blind spot” mirrors. The artists feel our collective identity is not fixed and that change through exchange with others is our strength.” 

‘TURN’ by Adreon Henry, Bartholomew Municipal Pool

“The design of this vinyl-wrap artwork incorporates patterns that celebrate life in Austin: a pecan tree pattern, a lap-lane pattern, and a music performance pattern.” TEMPO 2D

A work of art called ‘TURN’ by Adreon Henry. There is a large vinyl wrapped structure with a pattern on it.
‘TURN’ by Adreon Henry
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Meander’ by Flash Collective

“With large and vibrant graphic symbols, this mural creates visibility for themes important to Austin’s LGBTQIA+ community in a welcoming and inclusive manner. TEMPO 2D

A work of art called ‘Meander’ by Flash Collective.  This is a mural with a colorful graphic pattern.
‘Meander’ by Flash Collective
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Mostly Locals’ by Show Goat Mural Works, Eiland/Moss BMX/Skate Park

“This mural, located on walls throughout the skate park, blends graphic design and cartoons to create lighthearted imagery.” TEMPO 2D

‘Ghost House’ by Nick Schnitzer, Givens District Park

“Modeled after a typical family home from the local neighborhood, this wire-frame structure is see-through, giving the work a fleeting or ghostly quality. The brightly-colored lines draw the eye, asking viewers to reconcile the illusory quality with the disappearing homes this sculpture references.”

This is a work of art called Ghost House by Nick Schnitzer. It is a yellow frame of a house in a field.
Ghost House by Nick Schnitzer
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Shudder’ by Adam Owens, Wooldridge Square

“Shudder reveals elemental forces we often take for granted. As the wind blows across the sculpture and sunlight hits it, individual surface discs shudder and flare, illuminating the constant natural forces we often ignore in our busy modern lifestyles.” 

A work of art called Shudder by Adam Owens. An oval pane of glass reflects light to a platform below.
Shudder by Adam Owens
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Mirror Cloud’ by Elizabeth Farrell and Clare van Montfrans, Austin Nature & Science Center

“Heightening awareness of nature by presenting it in a new way, Mirror Cloud reflects the environment and the viewer through a series of mirror-finish stainless steel surfaces. Up close, the mirrors create a kaleidoscope in the sky.” 

A work of art called Mirror Cloud by Elizabeth Farrell and Clare van Montfrans. Multiple stainless steel structures hang from a steel frame.
Mirror Cloud by Elizabeth Farrell and Clare van Montfrans
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Wild Imaginations’ by Jesse Melanson, Austin Nature & Science Center

“This colorful artwork will circumscribe a skylight located within the Austin Nature and Science Center. Imagery for the mural is drawn from a photography workshop with participants of the center’s youth summer programs.” TEMPO 2D

A work of art called ‘Wild Imaginations’ by Jesse Melanson. This is a mural with a colorful outdoor scene.
‘Wild Imaginations’ by Jesse Melanson
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Low on the Treble’ by Kel Brown, Rosewood Neighborhood Park

“The high-contrast, geometric design of this dynamic mural complements the lines of the tennis courts while also mimicking the playfulness of the park playground.” TEMPO 2D

A work of art called ‘Low on the Treble’ by Kel Brown. This is a mural with a black and white geometric pattern.
‘Low on the Treble’ by Kel Brown
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Eye Eat Sun Shine’ by Jonathan ‘Chaka’ Mahone, Austin Public

“Inspiration for the mural on the exterior of Austin Public came from conversations between the artists and community members. The neighborhood expressed a desire for art that represented East Austin as a beacon for culture. The mural, featuring a vibrant sunflower framed by Texas musician Kenny Dorham, celebrates the history of Austin and radiates light out into the world.” TEMPO 2D

A mural depicting two people playing musical horn instruments on both sides of a flower in a vase.
‘Eye Eat Sun Shine’ by Jonathan ‘Chaka’ Mahone, Austin Public
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Moments’ refreshed by Laurie Frick

Tempo Refresh is a new Art in Public Places initiative, created to complement the program’s character by commissioning a refurbishment or reimagining of existing public art. Most Austinites are familiar with Carl Trominski’s Moments—more commonly thought of as the reflective blue signs installed under the Lamar Bridge, now more than a decade old. This year, it was the project targeted for refreshment, resulting in a mural that incorporates the signs and expands on their history.

A colorful mural on a wall.
‘Moments’ refreshed by Laurie Frick
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Reflecting Well’ by Rebecca Rothfuss Harrell, Jamie Odom Gazebo at Town Lake Metro Park 

“This abstract mural that complements both the natural and built environment. Its colors reflect the glass of downtown buildings and the waterfront of Town Lake, with shapes that represent minerals and stones—such as celestine and limestone—found in Central Texas.” TEMPO 2D

‘The OG Austinite’ by Luis Angulo

“Adjacent to Barton Springs Pool and Zilker Park, this mural showcases the endangered Barton Springs Salamander.” TEMPO 2D

A colorful mural.
‘The OG Austinite’ by Luis Angulo
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Bolm Road’ by Matthew Briar Bonifacio Rodriguez

“Based on conversations the artist had with residents of the Govalle neighborhood, this mural incorporates easily recognizable themes that resonate with the community.” TEMPO 2D

A colorful mural on a wall.
‘Bolm Road’ by Matthew Briar Bonifacio Rodriguez
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Astron’ by Nathan Nordstrom and Peter Krsko, Longview Neighborhood Park

“This sculpture celebrates our celestial origins as star dust. Viewers are invited to step into Astron to find the connection between the constellations and themselves. Color by color, Nordstrom brings multi-dimensional expressions to the wood-and-lath form created by Krsko.”

A work of art called Astron by Nathan Nordstrom and Peter Krsko. There are multiple colorful structures.
Astron by Nathan Nordstrom and Peter Krsko
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Color Field’ by Augustina Rodriguez, Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Metro Park

“Symbolizing the cultural bounty of the Guerrero Park community, a field of brightly-colored fiberglass rods are installed along Grove Boulevard, surprising viewers as they pass the park. The 12-foot x 75-field references growth and is a commentary on optimism in spite of hardship.”

A work of art called Color Field by Augustina Rodriguez. Colorful rods are interspersed with the grass in a field.
Color Field by Augustina Rodriguez
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Reverse Invaders’ by Lance Bradley, Mabel Davis Skate Park and Pool

“This imaginative mural design, executed In the energetic style of sketchbook drawings, blurs the boundary between real and surreal.” TEMPO 2D

A mural on a wall.
‘Reverse Invaders’ by Lance Bradley
Philip Rogers Photography

‘A Place to Call Home’ by Rakhee Jain, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport

“Located in the Barbara Jordan Terminal of the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, this fiber-based artwork explores the idea of Austin as a welcoming place for all. Using a wax and dye patterning process known as batik, the artist worked with members of Austin’s immigrant community to create the final design.” TEMPO 2D

A colorful mural on a wall.
‘A Place to Call Home’ by Rakhee Jain
Philip Rogers Photography

‘Sunbrella’ by Allyson Lipkin, Pleasant Hill Branch, Austin Public Library

“Through the installation of three sculptures, Lipkin hopes to highlight the value of green open spaces within our growing city. Made of warm-fused, colored glass and aluminum, these beach umbrella sculptures are arranged in a triangle, defining a space for relaxation.”

A work of art called ‘Sunbrella’ by Allyson Lipkin. Multiple colorful umbrellas are situated in a field of grass.
‘Sunbrella’ by Allyson Lipkin
Philip Rogers Photography