Lithoglyphs is a series of 200 playful stainless steel inlays set into the concrete floor of the new Institute for the Environment at the University of Arizona in Tucson, Arizona. The inlays were developed by abstracting regional imagery with the goal of capturing Tucson’s unique ecology. Many of the inlays are very recognizable and depict local icons such as a bobcat, javelina, a hiker, mountain lion, and a map of Arizona.

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Lithoglyphs represents a new way to engage the public as the project explores marrying art, science, and nature. The artwork was a collaborative effort between Creative Machines and the University of Arizona. Specific inlays were sponsored by donors, and we worked with faculty and staff members to brainstorm and choose the best designs to represent the local community and land. The resulting inlays decorate the pathway and courtyard. Many of the icons reflect the variety of interests and research done by the departments housed within the building.

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Date:

2015

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Location:

Environment and Natural Resources 2 Building (ENR2), University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ

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Dimensions:

10'' x 10''

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Media:

stainless steel

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Commissioning Agency: 

University of Arizona

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Artist:

Joe O'Connell