Ellsworth Kelly’s “Austin”
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Overview
Linbeck was the design-builder for Ellsworth Kelly’s final work, “Austin”–the first and only freestanding building the internationally acclaimed artist ever designed. Located on the campus of The University of Texas at Austin, the barrel-vaulted, chapel-like structure is composed of Spanish limestone and features 1,400 individually shaped pieces of Bateig limestone and 33 hand-blown art glass windows from Munich. Inside, an 18-foot-tall totem sculpture made from reclaimed redwood guards the apse, while smooth white walls act as a modest backdrop for the 14 black-and-white marble panels illustrating the Stations of the Cross. During the project, Linbeck self-performed 12% of the work and created more than 150 sheets and multiple 3D models, renderings, and mockups to accomplish Ellsworth Kelly’s artist vision.
Awards
AGC of America | JLT Build America Award: Building New, 2018
ENR | Best of the Best Award: Cultural/Worship, 2018
ENR Texas & Louisiana | Regional Best Project Award: Cultural/Worship, 2018
AIA San Antonio | People + Place Award, 2018
"I can say without hesitation, Linbeck's attention to detail, not only in terms of cost and construction, but also in terms of honoring the artistic intent, is beyond any expectation an artist might have."
Hiram ButlerHiram Butler Gallery
