If you’re reading this, you already know that Smash Design thrives on creating the extraordinary! We think big, and we BUILD big. This massive sculpture project for Texas State University’s Cibolo Hall is a fantastic example of what we mean!
It’s a whimsical piece on a colossal scale that’s become the talk of the campus. This awe-inspiring sleeping bobcat sculpture is not just a testament to our team’s skill and creativity, but also an unforgettable example of brand activation done right.
The Challenge
It all started with a unique request: Create a larger-than-life representation of the Texas State bobcat mascot to be installed above the entrance to one of the campus’s most iconic buildings. The goal was to craft a sculpture that would capture the power and spirit of campus life and serve as an irresistible attraction for student engagement and pride.
The Smash Design Approach
Our team of skilled designers and sculptors immediately set to work, rendering a 3D image of a sleeping bobcat that would be both majestic and approachable. We used large CNC machines to carve out a massive sculpture piece by piece. At Smash Design, we specialize in BIG, and that’s exactly what this sculpture was meant to be—a big, bold work that attracted lots of attention and made for incredible photo opportunities.
The Creation Process
The process began with conceptualization and design. Our artists meticulously planned every detail of the bobcat sculpture, ensuring it would capture the essence of Texas State’s mascot while also being structurally sound at such a large scale.
For material selection, we chose to work with giant blocks of styrofoam, a material that allows for intricate carving while remaining lightweight enough for transportation and installation.
The carving phase was a painstaking process. The carving work was begun by the CNC machines and then detailed by our skilled sculptors. Due to the massive size of the sculpture, we worked in sections, ensuring each piece would fit together seamlessly in the final assembly.
Once the individual sections were carved to perfection, our team finished the piece with a hard coat and automotive paint, making the colors durable enough to pop in an outdoor installation under the Texas sun. Every detail, from the intricate fur patterns to the subtle coloration, was carefully crafted to ensure lasting realism.
Transportation of such a massive sculpture required careful planning. We transported the piece in sections and completed the tricky rooftop installation of the sculpture ourselves.
The Impact
The unveiling of the massive sculpture was met with an outpouring of enthusiasm from students, faculty, and staff alike. The smiling, sleeping bobcat has quickly become a beloved campus landmark, serving as a popular spot for photos and a symbol of school pride.
This project exemplifies how Smash Design excels in brand activation through monumental art. By creating a tangible, impressive representation of Texas State’s mascot, we’ve helped the university strengthen its visual identity and create a lasting impression on current and prospective students.
Let’s Create Something Amazing!
Ready to make a big impact with your next project? Contact Smash Design today, and let’s create something extraordinary together! We can create anything you dream up—guaranteed.