Discovering art at Washington State University (WSU) is a delightful journey, with exhibits both outdoors and indoors scattered across the campus. To start your art exploration, consider parking off-campus, perhaps in Downtown Pullman, and walk up through Greek Row. This path leads you to some of the oldest buildings, such as Stevens Hall and Thompson Hall. As you continue your walking tour, you’ll encounter the “Palouse Columns,” a striking addition to the campus crafted by Robert Maki in 2003. These columns serve as a testament to the evolving artistic landscape at WSU.
Walking up towards Thompson Hall, the imposing castle-like structure on campus, opens the path to Veteran’s Mall and continuing to Eastlick. Here, you will see a significant square pillar simply known as “Untitled,” by Clint Brown. This unique piece adds a touch of artistic intrigue to the landscape, inviting you to pause and appreciate the blend of architecture integrated into the campus surroundings.
From Eastlick, make your way towards Library Hall, connecting to Terrell Mall, next to Holland Library. Positioned appropriately in front of Holland Library, near the Compton Union Building (CUB), sits a sculpture portraying a man crafted entirely from books..
Walk to the top of Terrell Library, and there, observe the unique glass roof structure that sticks out from the top. Nearby, you’ll also discover a dynamic sculpture known as “Persona” by Douglas Hollis, a mesmerizing artwork that transforms with the shifting winds.
The CUB and Holland/Terrell Libraries are centralized locations for WSU students, with the CUB hosting several places for eating and gathering, as well as the Student Bookstore (SBC). Here you can also find some art, during open hours.
By this point, you’ve encountered numerous century-old structures showcasing the classic WSU red-brick architectural style. Alongside this historical backdrop stands the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art, a more recent addition boasting 10,000 square feet of exhibition space. The museum offers an immersive space with frequently rotating exhibits. With its striking crimson exterior, the building not only harmonizes with WSU’s core colors but also serves as a focal point of contemporary art, blending tradition and innovation.
Next to the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art is another new building known as the Smith Center for Undergraduate Education. This is where you will find a sculpture known as “Red Horse Capture” by John Buck.
Near the Smith Center is the Fine Arts building, a place devoted to Art. There you can find Gallery II and Gallery III, which has rotating exhibits throughout the year. You can also find an outdoor sculpture known as “Portal”, by Buster Simpson.
As you pass through Stadium Way, more artistic encounters await, particularly around the buildings dedicated to Veterinary Sciences. Among these sculptures is “The Caring Call,” distinguished by its unique crimson coating. Further along, you’ll encounter “X-Position” by Robert Ellison, a Tic-Tac-Toe creation, as well as the interesting amalgamations “Cobumora” by Andrew Leicester and “A World Beyond” by Brad Wood. And a mysterious, hook-shaped sculpture near Neill Hall, its name eluding immediate discovery. And no exploration would be complete without acknowledging the presence of the “Technicolor Heart.”
Returning up Stadium Way towards Gesa Field Stadium, a splendid display awaits: the striking Cougar Pride sculpture featuring Butch the Cougar, inviting all to share in the collective enthusiasm that defines this iconic symbol of WSU.
Beyond the captivating art gracing the WSU campus, Pullman’s nearby towns offer several additional spaces to explore and discover unique art.