Texas Rising was unveiled in August 2014 as part of the Texas Tech University System’s Public Art Collection. The five sculptures are located in the courtyard of the West Village Residence Hall and the two star chandeliers are hanging in the building’s archways. Each sculpture is made from perforated stainless steel and lit from within by colored LED lights. The group of stars rising out of the landscape and assuming their complete form suggests the journey each student can take, the evolution of Texas Tech and the coming-of-age of the entire state. Each star has a unique 2D pattern cut into the surface, which abstractly represents the university’s values, culture, alumni, academic achievements and traditions. Artists Joe O’Connell and Blessing Hancock of Tucson, Arizona, teamed up to create the sculptures using Texas Tech school spirit as their inspiration. Visitors to the sculptures are encouraged to look for “secret symbols” within the cutouts, including a Double-T, victory bell and an old-fashioned farm windmill.
The Texas Tech University System Public Art Program was initiated by the Board of Regents in 1998 as an investment in the campus environments at each of its institutions. The development of the collection is guided by members of the public art committee, which includes faculty, staff, students, alumni, and university and community leaders.
Proceeds from the sale of each ornament are distributed to students in the form of scholarships. Each year, a new ornament is created so Texas Tech supporters can add to their collections.
