Discover Lincoln’s Vibrant Public Art Scene

Lincoln has undergone a remarkable transformation, becoming a haven for art enthusiasts. This metamorphosis is owed to decades of generous public and private funding, culminating in an extraordinary public art collection spread across the city. This artistic infusion has elevated Lincoln into a unique destination, boasting a rich tapestry of museums, galleries, and mesmerizing public art installations that delight visitors and locals.

The artistic journey can begin on Centennial Mall, where two magnificent bronze sculptures bookend the space. Sculptor Ben Victor’s awe-inspiring rendition of Native Chief Standing Bear stands tall, a testament to the importance of Native American rights. On the other end, Dr. Susan La Flesche Picotte, a trailblazing Nebraska Native American physician, is celebrated through another incredible bronze sculpture by the talented Ben Victor.

Close by is the University of Nebraska Lincoln, a haven for art enthusiasts, offering a delightful experience for those who wish to take a stroll and immerse themselves in art. At the heart of the campus, the Sheldon Sculpture Garden, situated at 12th and R streets, showcases an unusual array of 30 sculptures from the early 20th century to the present. This verdant garden, established in 1970 across 2.5 acres, features world-class sculptures from renowned artists worldwide, serving as a constant source of inspiration for UNL students, staff, and visitors. Among the notable works is Gaston Lachaise’s iconic Floating Figure.

While exploring the campus, visitors will encounter several other acclaimed sculptures, including Claes Oldenberg and Coosje van Bruggen’s Torn Notebook, Mark di Suvero’s Old Glory, and Richard Serra’s Greenpoint. An interactive map and more details can be found at sheldonartmuseum.org. Additionally, the campus houses other remarkable sculptures, such as David Smith’s Superstructure Four, Tony Smith’s Willy and Prismatic Flake, and the abstract Variable Wedge, all contributing to UNL’s artistic splendor.

In 2004, the Friends of the Center for Great Plains Studies at UNL commissioned famed sculptor George Lundeen to create On the Trail of Discovery, a captivating multi-figure sculpture commemorating Lewis and Clark’s historic journey from 1804 to 1806. The bronze masterpiece portrays explorers Lewis and Clark, a Native American guide and boy, and their trusty Newfoundland dog. This remarkable sculpture is a gateway to UNL’s Center for Great Plains Studies, symbolizing a pivotal moment in American history.

Eddie Dominguez, a distinguished art professor at UNL, envisioned Redwall, an exceptional collection of 383 ceramic tiles adorning the entire Lied Center for Performing Arts’ Lied Commons wall. This collaborative work represents the local community, with anonymous contributors crafting various tiles featuring images of flowers, footballs, and more.

Beyond the university, Lincoln’s downtown and Haymarket area proudly showcase many art and sculptures. A magnificent 45-foot-tall metal sculpture, Harvest, graces the plaza before the Pinnacle Bank Arena. Crafted by Oregon artist Ed Carpenter, this abstract sculpture with ever-changing colors employs lights to create a mesmerizing 24-hour presence, portraying a sheaf of wheat or a fountain. Additionally, Ascent, a splendid glass spire located at Tower Square on 13th and P streets, captivates viewers with its magical tower of colors. Japanese sculptor Jun Kaneko created the structure incorporating sand gardens and concrete concentric circles surrounding the stunning five-story, multi-colored glass tower.

Art enthusiasts will discover the beloved bronze sculpture Watchful Citizen in Lincoln’s Haymarket district, inviting passersby to rest on the adjacent bench for memorable photo opportunities. A block away, the captivating Iron Horse Legacy, an intricate brick mural by
Lincoln’s native artist Jay Tschetter, further adds to the artistic charm of the Lincoln Station.

In various parts of the city, art installations continue to flourish. Larry Roots’ impressive 15-foot-tall photomural above S. 12th St., between O and N streets, celebrates Lincoln’s diversity with representations of individuals of different ages, genders, and ethnicities. Meanwhile, Groundwater Colossus, an awe-inspiring giant brick head, stands tall at Union Plaza Park, a New York City sculptor James Tyler’s creation, comprising over 300 individually shaped bricks stacked in concentric circles.

Pioneer Park in southwest Lincoln offers an enchanting escape into nature, with its 668 acres of tall grass prairie, woodlands, wetlands, and streams adorned with various bronze sculptures. Notable among these is Ellis Burman’s Smoke Signal, a beloved memorial honoring Nebraska Native American tribes, that continues to capture the imagination even 80 years after its installation. Rich Haines’ Mountain Monarch stands tall at the Pioneers Park north entrance, captivating visitors with its artistic brilliance.

Near Nebraska Wesleyan University’s fine arts building, the compelling blue welded steel sculpture Calling Away, created by sculptor Dan Peragine in 1950, symbolizes the harmonious union of art, music, and theatre.

The legacy of pioneer women in Nebraska finds tribute in the bronze sculpture Pioneer Woman by Ellis L. Burman, nestled in the serene Memory Garden at 33rd and Melrose. Near the bustling intersection of South 27th Street and Capitol Parkway, the Bicentennial Cascade Fountain, crafted by artist Larry B. Group, stands as a heartfelt tribute to teachers and their impact on the youth of Nebraska.

Lincoln’s Sunken Gardens, a popular attraction, boasts the cast metal sculpture Reveille, a creation of Dr. Wayne Southwick, depicting an angel blowing a trumpet, inspired
by the artist’s endearing experience with his children. The gardens also feature a beautiful bronze sculpture of a young girl holding a sketchbook in honor of the late Beatrice ‘Mike’ Seacrest.

In recent years, Lincoln has seen a surge in public art projects. Tour de Lincoln, launched in 2003, featured 71 bicycle sculptures that dotted parks, businesses, residences, and bike trails throughout the city, raising funds through an auction. Star-themed artwork adorned Lincoln in 2006, benefiting the Lincoln YWCA, and in 2017, the Nebraska Heart public art project captured hearts with its 89 dazzling hearts displayed and auctioned at Haymarket Park’s covered concourse. Serving Hands, celebrating the 50th anniversary of Campus Life, added 39 distinct pieces of art across the city in 2018.

Lincoln is undoubtedly a city bursting with artistic expression, numerous public sculptures, fascinating museums, and stunning art. Explore the rich tapestry of art that enhances this remarkable city at every turn.

These are just a few of the public sculptures in Lincoln. The museums are full of amazing art, too. Read the Art Gallery story on page 25 for more information about the art that enhances the city. Lincoln is truly a city full of art. 

For the exact locations of these amazing pieces of art, check the following:

www.lincoln.ne.gov/City/Departments/Parks-and-Recreation/Parks-Facilities/Public-Art