Client: University of North Carolina Greensboro

Overview

The tribute offers a truly democratic space that invites everyone to honor and reflect on the legacy of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro’s founding as a Woman’s College. By weaving together and juxtaposing images, words, symbols, and place-specific materials and forms, the artwork celebrates and pays tribute to the Woman’s College and their alumnae by linking the past with the present and connecting it to the future. The sculpture, Astera is a modern interpretation of Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom and emblem of the University, Astera projects timeless qualities of courage, determination, intellect, grace, and diversity. The sculpture is an iconic presence in the university, and a space for gatherings and graduation celebrations. Her interactive nature encourages people to create new traditions, perhaps wrapping scarves around her and placing daisies in her hair. Astera’s spirit fills the circular garland walls. People of all cultural and ethnic backgrounds connect with the universal qualities of her presence.

Goals

A group of women alumni, who are now in their 80's, who attended the University when it was a women's college, raised the donations to complete the project. They contributed photos from the women's college era, and spearheaded the fundraising campaign, a process which took over 10 years.
The project honored their service and legacy.