Egghead Sculptures UC Davis
Iconic 'Egghead' sculptures by Robert Arneson, scattered across UC Davis campus, offering a quirky and engaging art exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for photos
Egghead Sculptures UC Davis
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 'Egghead' sculptures by Robert Arneson, scattered across UC Davis campus, offering a quirky and engaging art exploration.
"These giant, thought-provoking sculptures are a fun and free way to explore the beautiful UC Davis campus!"
🗺️ Campus Map is Key
Grab a campus map to easily locate all five Eggheads. They're spread out, so planning helps! :world_map:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking between sculptures. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bookhead
Near Shields Library
This intellectual giant, often found near the library, embodies the 'egghead' concept perfectly.
Stargazer
East side of North Hall
Gaze upwards with this sculpture, a favorite for its contemplative pose and starry night connection.
Eye of Mrak (Fatal Laff)
Near Mrak Hall
A striking and memorable piece, this sculpture is known for its bold presence on campus.
See No Evil, Hear No Evil
Near the Art Building
This pair of sculptures offers a playful and thought-provoking artistic statement.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Quirky Art
Free Campus Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Campus Map is Key
Grab a campus map to easily locate all five Eggheads. They're spread out, so planning helps! :world_map:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking between sculptures. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Each sculpture offers unique photo opportunities. Get creative with your angles! :camerawithflash:
💡 Learn Their Stories
Each Egghead has a history. Look for informational plaques or research online beforehand! :bulb:
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Campus Map is Key
Grab a campus map to easily locate all five Eggheads. They're spread out, so planning helps! :world_map:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking between sculptures. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Each sculpture offers unique photo opportunities. Get creative with your angles! :camerawithflash:
💡 Learn Their Stories
Each Egghead has a history. Look for informational plaques or research online beforehand! :bulb:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Egghead sculptures to be a unique and engaging aspect of the UC Davis campus, appreciating their artistic merit and the opportunity for exploration. While some find them quirky and thought-provoking, others might be surprised by their scale and placement. The free access and campus setting are consistently praised.
"Stargazer Egghead. Who doesn’t like starry nights?"
Ivan Martinez
"Stargazing egghead"
m g
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Gary Osterloh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Egghead sculptures are located across the UC Davis campus. You can drive and park in designated visitor lots, or take public transportation to reach the campus. Once on campus, they are accessible by walking.
Yes, UC Davis has several visitor parking lots. Check the university's parking services website for locations and fees. Parking can be busy during weekdays.
Absolutely! UC Davis is a very bike-friendly campus. There are numerous bike racks available near the sculptures and campus buildings.
Yes, various Yolo Bus routes serve the UC Davis campus, making it accessible via public transportation from surrounding areas.
Using a campus map is highly recommended. You can find physical maps on campus or use the online interactive map to plan your route efficiently.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Egghead sculptures are part of the UC Davis campus and are free for everyone to view and enjoy.
The sculptures are outdoors and accessible at any time, as they are part of the public campus grounds.
There is no admission fee to enter the UC Davis campus. Parking fees may apply if you are driving.
Yes, you can visit the Eggheads anytime. However, campus events might affect parking availability or access to certain areas.
While official guided tours specifically for the Eggheads might be limited, student groups like STREAM sometimes offer insights. 
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best natural light for photography, avoiding harsh midday sun and fewer crowds.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be respectful of the campus environment.
Experiment with different angles, include the campus architecture in the background, or capture the sculptures in different weather conditions for unique shots.
Drone usage on campus is typically restricted. It's best to check UC Davis's official policies regarding drone operation.
The campus is generally lit, but specific lighting for the sculptures may vary. Night photography might be challenging without dedicated lighting.
🎫 💡 Art & History
The Egghead sculptures were created by renowned American sculptor and UC Davis professor Robert Arneson.
The term 'egghead' refers to intellectuals. Arneson used this motif to explore themes of academia, intellect, and the human form.
The five sculptures were completed and installed on the UC Davis campus in 1994, and 2024 marks their 30th anniversary.
The sculptures are refurbished every five years by the Walla Walla Foundry, which includes cleaning, repatination, and waxing.
You can find more information through UC Davis art department resources, documentaries about the art at UC Davis, and gallery archives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan for a day of exploration by bringing snacks and drinks, as you'll be walking between the sculptures. Comfortable shoes are essential for little feet. The open campus spaces also provide opportunities for kids to run around and enjoy the outdoors between art viewing. Consider making it a scavenger hunt to find all five sculptures!
🚶♀️ Art Enthusiasts & Students
+1Consider researching Arneson's work and the context of the 'egghead' term before your visit to deepen your understanding. The sculptures are also excellent subjects for photography and sketching. The campus itself, with its integration of art, provides a rich environment for artistic inspiration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Robert Arneson's Eggheads
+1Each sculpture has its own distinct personality and placement, encouraging exploration across the campus. From 'Bookhead' near the library, symbolizing knowledge, to 'Stargazer' contemplating the cosmos, they invite viewers to interact and reflect. The ongoing maintenance, including refurbishment by the original foundry every five years, ensures their preservation and continued presence as iconic campus landmarks.
The 30th anniversary in 2024 has brought renewed attention to their history and impact. These sculptures are a testament to the university's commitment to integrating art into the academic environment. They serve as a constant reminder of the power of art to provoke thought, spark conversation, and enrich the daily lives of those who encounter them. Visiting the Eggheads offers a unique opportunity to connect with a significant piece of American contemporary art history.
Exploring the UC Davis Campus
+1Beyond the sculptures, the campus offers numerous other points of interest. You can wander through the Arboretum, visit the Manetti Shrem Museum of Art, or simply enjoy the well-maintained landscaping and architecture. The university's commitment to sustainability is evident throughout, with many areas designed for pedestrian and bicycle traffic, making it a pleasant environment for exploration.
To make the most of your visit, consider downloading a campus map or using an online interactive version. This will help you efficiently navigate between the sculptures and discover other hidden gems on campus. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a prospective student, or just looking for a unique outdoor experience, exploring the UC Davis campus alongside the Egghead sculptures is a rewarding endeavor.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit