Art Classes Create Public Benches

Thanks to an art class project, there are a few new places to take a seat on campus.

Students in Danielle Yakle’s visual arts class created three pairs of benches, which have been installed at various locations around campus.

The students were tasked with creating works that are simultaneously functional and creative. They are designed to encourage the campus community to enjoy nice weather while engaging directly with a work of art.  

The benches are similar to the recent sea dragon and octopus sculptures in terms of materials and technique. Each bench has a steel armature that is filled out with rigid builder’s foam and wrapped in wire mesh. The wire is encapsulated in layers of concrete and embellished with glass mosaic. Each bench is approximately three feet high, four feet long and two feet deep.  

Benches can be found in pairs in the courtyard of Blanton-Nason-Brewer Hall, on the Quad near Ophelia Parrish and between Kirk Building and Kirk Memorial.

Installed in early May, the benches are scheduled to remain on campus until October.