The University of Tampa has installed— through the generous philanthropy of Gene and Patsy McNichols — one of the most famous sculptures in the world: a six-foot “LOVE” sculpture by Robert Indiana. “LOVE” is located in a lawn to the east of Plant Hall.
“LOVE” has been described by the Museum of Modern Art as a Pop Art masterpiece that “continues to hold an important place in the history of art—and in the hearts of people all over the world.” Indiana first developed the iconic design in 1964, and the first “LOVE” sculpture was created out of core-ten steel in 1970. Today there are more than 50 iconic “LOVE” editions installed around the world, including in cities throughout the U.S., Europe and Asia. The artist tilted the letter “O” so that the four stacked letters form a perfect square, but also to remind viewers of the fragility of love itself.
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Four other sculptures have also been acquired:
- “Zephyr” by Jeremy Guy, which represents the quality of persistence.
- “Open Window Monument” by Ted Schaal, which represents a spiritual characteristic.
- “DNA of Success” by Robert Romero, which represents continued learning.
- “On a Roll” by Jack Hill, which represents a sense of humor.
New sculpture trail coming to University of Tampa
“As many say, we need more love in the world,” said UT President Ron Vaughn, who is retiring from UT on May 31. ““This will be a highly visible campus location where it can be enjoyed by students and the public,” Vaughn said.
Gene and Patsy McNichols made the donation to purchase the sculpture in honor of Gene’s father, Robert L. McNichols, who founded the McNichols’ Company, The Hole Story. The McNichols are longtime supporters of UT and were also donors to the Sykes Chapel and Center for Faith and Values. Gene McNichols is a chair emeritus of the UT Board of Trustees.
Interactive public art pieces in the heart of the city
The McNichols’ donation will also fund an innovative and interactive sculpture trail, anchored by the “LOVE” sculpture, that would add 15-20 sculptures to the 110-acre downtown campus.
Sculptures chosen for the sculpture trail will include pieces of varying size, style and mediums by nationally and internationally renowned artists. The pieces are being chosen or commissioned expressly to stimulate conversation and learning about desirable human characteristics and qualities.
The sculpture trail will be officially called the McNichols Sculpture Trail. Visit University of Tampa’s website to learn more about activities and big news on campus.
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