Rice University
Rice University 100 Years 1912-2012

Centennial Celebration Projects

Edgar Odell Lovett bronze statue

artist's concept for the bronze statue of Edgar Odell Lovett

Rice recently commissioned a nearly 8-foot bronze statue of Edgar Odell Lovett that will most likely be placed in front of Keck Hall — the area where Lovett gave his last speech as Rice's first president by introducing his successor, William V. Houston. The university is seeking support from the entire Rice community to bring its plans for the statue to fruition and hopes to unveil the commemorative sculpture as part of its Centennial Celebration in 2012.

To make a donation toward the Lovett Statue Fund online, visit the Centennial Campaign. Gifts may also be mailed to Rice University, Lovett Statue Fund – MS 83, P.O. Box 1892, Houston, Texas 77251-1892. For more information about the Lovett Statue Fund, contact Rice senior philanthropic adviser Sam Lasseter.

Bruce Wolfe, Sculptor

Known for his remarkable skill in creating dynamic likenesses, American sculptor Bruce Wolfe has been commissioned to create numerous busts and statues of famous individuals in the course of his career of over 40 years. His representative work includes the following:

 

  • A monumental sculpture of Barbara Jordan for the main concourse of Austin International Airport.
  • A second sculpture of Barbara Jordan for the University of Texas at Austin.
  • A sculpture of Margaret Thatcher for Hillsdale College in Michigan.
  • A bronze of Howard Jones for Youngstown University in Ohio, where Jones served as president.
  • A bronze of former mayor Ilus W. Davis of Kansas City, Missouri.
  • Four monumental figures for the historic chapel at Old Mission Santa Barbara in California.
  • A sculpture of John Hannah for Michigan State University, where Hannah served as president.
  • An 8-foot bronze of T. Jack Foster, the founder of Foster City, California.
  • Saint John Baptist De La Salle, Saint Anne, Saint Mary, Saint Jude, former college president Brother Mel Anderson and bronze medallion bas-reliefs of significant donors for Saint Mary's College in Moraga, California.

 

In addition, Mr. Wolfe has created many bronze portraits from life.

Mr. Wolfe has taught both figure painting and sculpture in several art schools in California and is adept in the mediums of bronze, clay and oil. In each of his projects, he uses contemporary methods to create patinas designed to last for centuries with minimal upkeep.

To see examples of Mr. Wolfe's work, please visit his Web site at http://www.brucewolfe.com/.