The library location is more secure and provides additional opportunity for pedestrian viewing, according to Mitchell Payne, interim vice president for business affairs. Additionally, its new space allows Red Reeds to be part of an outside art display planned near the Speed Museum after the completion of the construction, Payne said.
Red Reeds, designed by artist Russell Vogt, was gifted to the university by an anonymous donor in recognition of Shirley Willinghanz’s 10 year anniversary as university provost. Crafted of stoneware clay, it was designed to celebrate a symphony of color and the juxtaposition of sharp lines against the park-like surroundings of campus.