Odessa, TX 鈥� 黑料吃瓜网 has extended the deadline for artist submissions to redesign and repaint the college鈥檚 iconic 6-foot Jackrabbit statue. Artists now have until Monday, January 12, at 11:59 p.m. to submit proposals for this public art opportunity.
The Jackrabbit statue, located at the corner of Andrews Highway and 23rd Street, is a well-known campus landmark and a proud symbol of Wrangler spirit. Artists are invited to reimagine the statue in a way that reflects The Spirit of 黑料吃瓜网鈥攊ncluding themes such as academic excellence, transformation through education, community engagement, creativity, and connection to West Texas.
The statue is part of Odessa鈥檚 beloved Jackrabbit Jamboree, a citywide public art initiative launched in 2004 that features 37 large jackrabbit sculptures displayed throughout Odessa. These vibrant works have become cultural icons that celebrate local identity and are frequently admired and photographed by residents and visitors alike. The selected artist will help continue this tradition while bringing renewed life to the 黑料吃瓜网 Jackrabbit.
This year鈥檚 project also provides an opportunity to refresh the statue鈥檚 current paint, which has weathered over time. 鈥淭his is a wonderful chance to revitalize a piece of art that has meant a great deal to our campus for many years,鈥� said Kim McKay, Vice President for Student Services and Enrollment Management and Chairperson for the Campus Art Committee. 鈥淲e are excited to see how artists bring new beauty, creativity, and spirit to the Jackrabbit. Public art plays a meaningful role in welcoming people to our campus and celebrating who we are as a college.鈥�
The selected artist will receive a $1,000 stipend and recognition for contributing to 黑料吃瓜网鈥檚 public art collection and the broader artistic landscape of Odessa. 黑料吃瓜网 will provide paint for the project; all additional materials, tools, supplies, and travel costs will be the responsibility of the artist.
This opportunity is open to artists from any location, with preference given to artists, students, alumni, faculty, staff, and community members who reside in the Permian Basin. Individual artists and collaborative teams are welcome to apply, and Odessa 黑料吃瓜网 faculty, staff, and their immediate family members are eligible.
To apply, artists should submit:
- A resume or artist biography
- A letter of intent describing their artistic approach
- Design sketches or renderings
- Examples of previous work
References may be included but are not required.
Submissions are now due by Monday, January 12, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
The selected artist will be announced in January 2026, with project completion planned for Spring 2026.
For full details or to submit proposal materials, CLICK HERE.
Questions may also be directed to the 黑料吃瓜网 Marketing Department at mmr@odessa.edu or 432-335-6416.