Woods Quad Sculpture Garden: An Oasis of Art and History

Woods Quad, also known as the "Old Quadrangle," is a historic green space at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. Surrounded by Manly Hall, Woods Hall, Garland Hall, and Clark Hall, it represents the heart of the campus. These buildings were among the first to be rebuilt after the Civil War, giving Woods Quad a significant place in the university's history. In the mid-1990s, Woods Quad transformed into a sculpture garden, adding a new layer of interest to the space. Officially dedicated in August 2014, the garden features a variety of artworks from students, alumni, and faculty. The sculptures range from the abstract to the representational, offering a diverse collection of styles and themes. Notable sculptures include "Flourish" by Ringo Lisko, a crescent moon made of cast camellias, the state flower of Alabama. "Goldie 1971" by Joe McCreary, commemorates Birmingham's industrial past with a piece inspired by Sloss Furnaces. Billy Lee's "Homage to Brancusi" has been a fixture since winning the 1993 Alabama Biennial Purchase Award. Visitors can also find Craig Wedderspoon's "Quilted Vessel" and "Montgomery Marker". The "Fibonacci Spiral" by Lindsay Jones Lindsey reflects mathematical concepts in its design. Woods Quad is more than just a display of art; it's a space where students, faculty, and visitors can gather, relax, and reflect. The garden is open to the public and provides a unique opportunity to experience art in an outdoor setting.