Dean Ruck (Sculpture '87) recipient of international CODAawards Merit Award
“Vernoculus” by Dean Ruck. Photo: Thomas B. Shea.
Congratulations to Dean Ruck (MFA Sculpture 1987) who was recently awarded an International CODAawards Merit Award.
The CODAawards recognize collaborations that result in outstanding projects that successfully integrate commissioned art into interior, architectural, or public spaces. In its eleventh year, the CODAawards received 411 entries from around the globe.
Ruck’s “Vernoculus” received Merit honors in the category of Hospitality. The project was a collaboration with Matt Fries (Lighting Designer). “Vernoculus” is a site-specific sculpture commissioned by notsuoH, an art bar in downtown Houston. Created by artist Dean Ruck (Sculpture ’87), this permanent installation graces the second-floor chess patio, serving as a memorial to Michael Galbreth, a beloved artist and chess player. “Vernoculus” consists of sixteen repurposed galvanized steel roof vent covers, symbolizing the number of chess pieces on each side.
“Vernoculus” by Dean Ruck. Photo: Thomas B. Shea.
Dynamic LED lighting brings “Vernoculus” to life, casting an ever-changing ambient glow over the open-air space. Measuring 40 feet by 10 feet by 50 feet, this sculpture enhances the notsuoH experience, seamlessly blending art and community. It beckons adventurers, poets, performance artists, and chess players from all backgrounds to its offbeat atmosphere.
“Ripple” at Cherywurst House by Havel Ruck Projects, 2018.
Ruck also won a CODAward in 2018 for “Ripple” at Cherryhurst House in Houston, Texas. “Ripple” was also a collaboration with sculptor Dan Havel.
Learn more:
About “Vernoculus” by Dean Ruck
