Texas Tech Community

Texas Tech Public Art: The Messengers

photo of the Messengers structure on ttu campus
Photo by Campus Live Intern Amanda Vancil

About The Messengers

On the campus of Texas Tech University, a sculpture called The Messengers stands out on the campus. The Messengers is located next to the College of Media and Communication building. The sculpture represents the different ways in which people communicate with each other.

The Structure of The Messengers

Elevated above the ground on poles are five pigeons. These poles uniquely help comprise the sculpture. In addition, ten limestone benches surround the pigeons. Firstly, five of the benches are employed as a ring inside of the pigeons. Correspondingly, the other five benches are distributed as a ring outside of the pigeons. The benches surrounding the outside ring of the sculpture each have one word on them. Accordingly, they spell out the sentence, “Think about how you communicate.”

The Messengers is the first kinetic piece that Texas Tech has brought into their public art collection. The pigeons on the sculpture are designed to move with the wind. Whenever the wind blows in a particular direction, it moves the pigeon’s stance on top of the pole. In the same vein, the five pigeons represent the five senses of the human body. This demonstrates how communication is essential.

The Story Behind The Messengers

Texas Tech installed The Messengers onto their campus in 2013. Artist David B. Hickman created the sculpture for the university. Hickman was born in Gainesville, Texas. He served on the Board of Directors of the Texas Sculpture Association for three years. Afterward, he served on the Dallas Visual Arts Center board for six years. He also was selected by the Dallas Chapter of the American Institute of Architects as Artist of the Year in 2005.

Overview

The Messengers is an outstanding sculpture. It also holds a very creative backstory. Moreover, the sculpture will intrigue viewers. It also showcases that communication is vital. So, if you’re ever on the Texas Tech campus, be sure to check out this sculpture!

For more Campus Live articles, click here!

Written by Campus Live intern Jacob Lee

Related posts

Texas Tech Public Art: Knowledge Structure

Campus Live Staff

The 63rd Annual Carol of Lights Preview

Campus Live Staff

Texas Tech Public Art: We are in the Business of Changing the World

Campus Live Staff