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23-Foot Artistic Arachnid to Keep Watch Over Southwest Greenway at Mueller

April 2008

What has eight legs and 23 feet?

The 23-foot tall by 35-foot wide metal spider is located
at Mueller's Southwest Greenway.

Nationally renowned Texas artist Dixie Friend Gay is creating the 23-foot tall by 35-foot wide metal spider. The sculpture will straddle the 10-foot-wide hike and bike trail that will eventually encircle Mueller. Over time, the spider's metal is expected to rust to an attractive shade of orange, while its six, deep purple eyes and blue and turquoise eggs will remain glossy and bright.

It's the 23-by-35-foot metal spider landing amid the fresh grass and newly planted trees atop the former airport parking lot that has been transformed into Mueller's Southwest Greenway, a 33-acre project designed by RVi Planning + Landscape Architecture + Graphic Design. The installation of this stunning piece by Houston artist Dixie Friend Gay begins Wednesday, Apr. 16. RVi was selected by Mueller's master developer Catellus Development Group to provide comprehensive landscape architecture and park design services for this part of the 711-acre development.

"Mueller's parks and open spaces are designed to bring residents, neighbors and Central Texas visitors together," said Matt Whelan, senior vice president of Catellus. "Featuring such unique public art throughout this common ground will help spark conversation and inspire creativity for those who come to learn more about native landscapes and environmental protection or just enjoy the great outdoors."

In May, additional artwork created by Mueller neighbor and artist Chris Levack will be installed further west near the new demonstration gardens in the Southwest Greenway. This complementary section includes a giant cactus pollen grain, a conceptual wigwam and drain covers embossed with snake designs.