KU Giving Magazine
A Perennial Tribute
Emily Cox
The Lied Center of Kansas dedicated a sculpture in September to celebrate the center’s 25th anniversary and to honor the Lied Foundation Trust.
In 1988, the Lied Foundation, led by Christina Hixson, made a gift of $10 million to build a new performing arts center in Lawrence. The center opened in 1993 and has entertained more than 1 million people in a variety of performances since then.
The Friends of the Lied commissioned the 20-foot, red-and-yellow sculpture titled “Bloom” from renowned artist and KU alumna Jan Gaumnitz. She drew inspiration from the center’s mission to engage Lawrence through experiential learning and wanted to create a large flower to represent the growth and creativity the Lied Center fosters in the community. Gaumnitz had a few goals for the sculpture — it must be visible from long distances, able to withstand harsh weather and suitable for a large open area with challenging winds.
“Bloom” is located in the middle of a sustainable pollinator garden and monarch waystation designed and tended by donors Doug and Susan Rendall, of Lawrence. The garden was meticulously planned — the Rendalls considered the origin of the plants, their position in relation to the sun, aesthetics and color scheme when arranging them in the garden.
Current Issue
Issue 38
Spring 2024
In this Spring 2024 issue, we meet faculty and student researchers who are uncovering clues about how organisms change, learn about exciting brain health developments at the KU ADRC, experience a unique study abroad program and get to know inspiring KU students, faculty and alumni.