A city council in Round Rock, Texas, just greenlit a $360,000 commission for a spectacular glass sculpture that will become the centerpiece of the newly renovated City Arts Center.
City Council Greenlights $360,000 Glass Masterpiece
Last week, the Round Rock city council voted unanimously to approve a commission contract for a new art installation. The decision was announced during a public meeting that drew a sizable crowd of local residents and business owners.
The contract, signed by council members, authorizes the purchase of a custom piece from world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly. The project represents a significant investment in the cultural life of the community.
The Commission and the Artist
The artist selected for this commission is Dale Chihuly, known worldwide for his large-scale blown-glass works. The city’s contract with Chihuly is valued at $360,000, a figure that reflects the cost of materials, labor, and design services.
The piece will measure roughly 9-by-6-feet, a size that allows it to dominate the interior space of the Griffith Building without overwhelming the surrounding architecture. The sculpture will be constructed entirely of blown glass, a medium that Chihuly has mastered over several decades.
About Dale Chihuly
Dale Chihuly has created numerous installations across the globe, many of which have become iconic landmarks. His work is characterized by vibrant colors and fluid forms that play with light and space. This commission marks his only permanent installation in Central Texas.
About the City Arts Center
The City Arts Center, located in the newly renovated Griffith Building, serves as a hub for local artists and community events. The building’s recent refurbishment includes updated galleries, performance spaces, and public gathering areas, all designed to foster creative collaboration.
Impact on Downtown and Community
City leaders emphasize that the new artwork will boost downtown visibility and attract visitors to the area. According to statements released by the council, the installation is expected to become a focal point for tourism and cultural engagement.
“The combination of having this beautiful new facility and an internationally recognizable piece of artwork custom-made for our community will continue to increase foot traffic in our downtown,” Sara Bustilloz, Communications and Marketing Director for the City of Round Rock, said during the Dec. 18 council meeting. “We think having this piece will absolutely turn heads in the art world and allow success to follow success.”
Community members have expressed enthusiasm for the project, noting that the sculpture will add a new layer of artistic experience to the downtown area. Local business owners anticipate increased patronage as visitors come to view the installation.
Community Reaction
Several local residents attended the council meeting and voiced support for the project. Comments highlighted the importance of investing in public art as a means of enhancing community pride and economic vitality.
Construction Timeline and Installation
Fabrication of the glass piece is set to begin in January, with the artist’s studio overseeing the entire process. The city plans to receive a full mock-up of the sculpture in the spring, allowing for public review and final adjustments.
The final installation is scheduled for the fall of 2026. This timeline aligns with the completion of the City Arts Center’s renovations and the city’s broader cultural development strategy.
The project will be showcased in the main gallery of the Griffith Building, where visitors can view the piece from multiple angles and experience the interplay of light and color.
Expected Installation
- Fabrication start: January
- Mock-up review: Spring
- Installation date: Fall 2026
These milestones ensure that the sculpture will be ready for public viewing by the end of the year.
Key Takeaways
- Round Rock will host its first permanent Dale Chihuly installation, a $360,000 blown-glass piece.
- The sculpture measures approximately 9-by-6-feet and will be installed in the City Arts Center’s Griffith Building.
- Fabrication begins in January, with a mock-up available in spring and final installation in fall 2026.
Final Thoughts
The Round Rock city council’s decision underscores the city’s commitment to enhancing cultural infrastructure and promoting artistic expression. By investing in a world-class artist, the community not only adds a stunning visual landmark but also signals its readiness to attract visitors and support local businesses.
As the project moves forward, residents and visitors alike will have the opportunity to experience a unique blend of artistry and community spirit, cementing Round Rock’s place on the cultural map of Central Texas.
