Arts on Campus
Sculpture on Campus
Many large-scale sculptures created by regional, national, and international artists are featured around the Buffalo State campus.
Dawn's Image, Night (1968)
The wood structure was donated by the artist, Louise Nevelson (1900-1988), and dedicated during Buffalo State's January 1969 commencement ceremony. Nevelson's work is represented in major museums and private collections around the world. This work, part of the Russian-born artist's Midnight series, is currently on view in E. H. Butler Library's large reading room.
Universe Wheel (1988)
Universe Wheel, by sculptor Alice Aycock, was specifically designed for Buffalo State. The artist chose the site on campus where the piece would stand—its current location, between Cleveland Hall and Bacon Hall. Aycock described Universe Wheel as representative of astronomical devices for observing and contemplating the universe.
Babi-Yar (1975)
Babi-Yar, created by artist Joseph Bolinsky, was donated in 1987 as a memorial to the thousands of people executed by the Nazis in Southern Russia. The artist dedicated the sculpture to Professor Stanley Czurles in recognition of his many positive contributions to education. Carved out of elm and finished with white paint, the eight-foot structure is located in E. H. Butler Library.
Metaphors (1961)
Metaphors intent is to show the path of education, which leads students to truth and understanding. The black walnut screen was created by artist Wesley Brett Jr. The piece was originally installed in Moot Hall in 1964, but was relocated to E. H. Butler Library in 1990.
Bank Architectural Fragments
Sculpture from the razed Erie County Savings Bank are installed across the Buffalo State campus. A pair of lions rest near Rockwell Hall; smaller architectural fragments adorn Moot Hall. Donated to Buffalo State in 1969 by Harlan J. Swift, president, Erie County Savings Bank; Edward Gabriel, head of the demolition company; George Smith, Ajax-Smith Corp. (who sandblasted the pieces); and E. S. Siegfried of Siegfried Construction (contributors to the original installation in the Rockwell Quad).
Cock-a-doodle-doo (1981)
Artist Billie Lawless created this 22-foot-high black, red, and yellow steel structure that resides in front of Upton Hall.
Steppe (1969-1970)
Steppe was one of a number of works by several artists that comprised an exhibition held at Buffalo State in conjunction with the opening of buildings designed by Perkins and Will.
