Rice University Celebrates Public Artwork by Local and National Artists

Rice’s Moody Center for the Arts celebrated the work of four artists it commissioned for temporary public art programs sited in the heart of campus with an opening reception Oct. 12. In addition to bringing attention to the recently installed murals on the Provisional Campus Facilities (PCFs) in its Tent Series, the Moody invited the community to view a new addition to the area. “Ash and Spirits,” created by Brooklyn-based Devin Kenny, is the latest installation in the Moody’s Platform Series. A scaffold-like structure covered in spray paint and bearing construction signs, the work houses near-field communication tags that allow visitors to access a playlist with their smartphones. By tapping the tags, guests can enjoy original music from influential Houston musicians like Fat Tony, Lisa E. Harris, B L A C K I E and others.

Kenny, along with Houston-based artists Preetika Rajgariah, Sarah Welch and Rice professor Kenneth Tam, represent a cross-section of Rice, local and national talent. All four greeted attendees and shared the story of their works.

The murals on the PCFs and the installation “Ash and Spirits” are located on the south side of campus, across Loop Road from Herring Hall, and will be on view through May.