Public Art Guide: Washburn University
Artwork on the Washburn University campus represents a wide range of mediums and styles. The university has a permanent collection of art as well as an annually rotating collection. Located in central Topeka, Washburn University proves itself to be a top spot for local artists and all visitors.
Rita Blitt Gallery & Sculpture Garden
In 2015, the Mulvane Art Museum received a significant donation of paintings, drawings, sculpture, and archival material representing the lifework of Kansas artist, Rita Blitt. Sorting through and cataloging the hundreds of works is a monumental task that creates unique opportunities to engage students and communities in the research, interpretation, and development of exhibitions and educational programs for many years to come.
The gallery opened in November of 2017 and houses the life’s work of the world-renowned artist. Blitt’s sculpture, Confluence of Love and Learning (pictured) sits in front of Morgan Hall, easily visible from the 17th and College intersection.
Mulvane Art Museum
The museum offers free admission and houses a collection of 4,000 works of art from around the world including paintings, prints, drawings, sculptures, photographs and decorative art. While international in scope, the Museum's collection focuses on the works of artists from Kansas and the Mountain Plains region of the United States. In addition to exhibiting works from the collection the Museum also presents changing exhibitions featuring artists from around the world.
Mulvane Court
A sculpture garden nestled between the Garvey Fine Arts Building and White Concert Hall on the Washburn campus. The space is known for its sculptures, stained glass windows and greenery.
Annual Rotating Outoor Sculpture Exhibit
The outdoor sculpture exhibition demonstrates Washburn’s commitment to art and enhancing the university’s aesthetic. New sculptures are selected yearly in a juried competition sponsored by the Campus Beautification Committee. These sculptures are created by artists from Kansas, around the country, and abroad. In addition to the five sculptures on the Washburn campus, two works are featured at the Washburn Institute of Technology campus. This provides new opportunities to enhance the natural beauty of the settings. You can pick up a sculpture guide at the Mulvane Art Museum.
ICHABODS AROUND TOWN
In honor of Washburn University’s 150th year in 2015, the Ichabod became Topeka’s newest form of eclectic street décor. Washburn University, along with community partners, highlighted the unique Ichabod mascot for Ichabods Around Town, an art-icon event that features fiberglass Ichabod statues decorated by local and regional artists installed around Topeka. You will find each Ichabod listed on our printed Public Art Guide.
PERMANENT SCULPTURES AND PUBLIC ART
There are more than 30 permanent sculptures and murals across the Washburn campus. Some are outdoor sculptures and some are indoor murals and sculptures.