New whimsical sculptures enliven “Art On Long Point”

Gone from public view are the seven inaugural public art installations that inspired Houstonia magazine to declare in early 2020 that Spring Branch is “blossoming into one of Houston’s hottest ‘hoods.”

But in their place are six newly installed and equally enchanting sculptures — by Texas artists — aimed at further delighting travelers, visitors, residents and workers on Long Point Road in the heart of the Spring Branch Management District.

The outdoor exhibit is the product of a partnership among Redbud Gallery owner Gus Kopriva, the wizard behind public art installations in the Heights, the Galleria area and Spring Branch; the talented artists who lend their work for public enjoyment; the Houston office of SWA, an international landscape architecture, planning and urban design firm; the staff and board of directors of the management district, which funds the permits and installations of the art work; the City of Houston; and owners of private property along the street.

The new pieces are fanciful versions of a bunny, a heart-shaped blossom, an aircraft and two even more abstract creations.

The promised rotation of pieces in the Art On Long Point project adds to other springtime flowerings in Spring Branch: Two massive, new weekend farmers markets have opened on Long Point (https://sbmd.org/spring-branch-gets-a-huge-farmers-market-make-that-two/).

In fact, one of the new artworks has been installed next to the parking lot where one of the weekend markets takes place.

“I’m pleased to be a part of a project happening at the right time in the right place with the right line-up of inspired artists,” Kopriva said. “I applaud the District for continuing to have the foresight and courage to do this. I’m convinced that public art uplifts and strengthens neighborhoods. It lifts spirits, the economy, and brings a smile to people’s faces. It makes the world a better place.”

The sculptures are installed on Long Point between Gessner and Wirt roads.

“We hope the fresh Art On Long Point will inspire future artists, give people new ways of looking at the world around them and create even more excitement about the dynamic improvements being made in Spring Branch,” Management District Board Chairwoman Pat Maddox said. “We also are so grateful to the accomplished artists who are providing exciting examples of their craft to this exhibit.”