The Elizabeth and Byron Anderson Sculpture Garden wraps around historic Morrill Hall. Shaded by flowering greenery, winding footpaths lined with perennials and shrubs take visitors through works of primarily American twentieth and twenty-first century sculpture. Ranging in size and material, this collection of artwork represents the diverse character of modern and contemporary sculpture in a natural, accessible setting.
The university’s first president Adonijah Welch (1821-1889; President 1868-83) envisioned a picturesque campus: a graceful road encircling the college’s majestic buildings, an assortment of trees sprinkled throughout providing shade, a vast lawn of green grass, and flowers tickling noses with sweet fragrances. Today, the iconic 22-acre greenspace is still at the heart of Iowa State, which has been named one of the most beautiful college campuses in the world. The Elizabeth and Byron Anderson Sculpture Garden is located just northwest of central campus and furthers the longstanding dedication of public art at Iowa State University.
The Elizabeth and Byron Anderson Sculpture Garden is given to Iowa State University by Elizabeth Anderson in memory of her husband, Byron.
Click here for a seek & find of the mural Hidden Gems of the Sculpture Garden by Louise "Ouizi" Jones. Learn about the flora and fauna in the mural and then find the plants in the Anderson Sculpture Garden.
Cost
The cost is free; donations are appreciated.
Hours
Always open
Address
603 Morrill Road
Ames, IA 50011
Parking
Memorial Union Parking Ramp
2229 Lincoln Way
Ames, IA 50011
IMAGES ABOVE: Cornhusker and 4-H Calf were both originally sculpted by Christian Petersen and later cast in bronze by Polich Art Works. Reclining Nudes, also by Christian Petersen, were originally sculpted for the entrance of Roberts Hall and were later installed in the Anderson Sculpture Garden. Click the titles to learn more.