Student opinions sprawl over 'spotty' relocation of MU monument
Drew Stewart
“It’s really kind of an eyesore,” MU senior and food and science nutrition major Kristin Dickerson said as she gazed through Lowry mall. “It just doesn’t look that good.”
The Tiger Spot, a 30 feet diameter mosasic located just outside the North entrance of Ellis Library, will be removed. The mosasic was created by artist Paul Jackson, a MU graduate, which was unveiled in October 2001. Photo by Kyle Spradley
Going into nearly its second month of removal and relocation, the Tiger Spot mosaic, located in the center of Lowry Mall and directly in front of Ellis Library’s rear entrance, has began to garner reactions from MU students. Some, like Dickerson, have come to resent the battered appearance the spot has adopted through erosion, alleged vandalism and its current relocation effort.
“There’re cracks all over it,” Dickerson said. “You almost can’t even tell what it is anymore.”
Completed in 2001, the Tiger Spot is a mosaic of 420,000 pieces of Italian glass depicting MU’s tiger mascot in mid-growl. The 30-foot (in diameter) monument is also surrounded by bricks engraved with the names of its financiers, and a sturdy, low-hanging chain. The Tiger Spot was designed and installed by local artist Paul Jackson.
Not all students dislike the mosaic, however. Freshmen David Chester, a psychology and dietetics double major, offered a more optimistic look on the ordeal.
“I personally enjoy all of the spirit that’s built into Mizzou,” Chester said. “[The Tiger Spot] is a good reminder that you’re at Mizzou and you’re in charge of yourself now. I’d like it if the Tiger Spot would stay, but I understand why it has to be moved.”
Yet the relocation process itself has no established deadline nor does the University know exactly where the mosaic will be moved to at this point said Christian Basi, associate director of the MU News Bureau. Regardless, Mizzou will continue to work towards the eventual relocation of its most-massive mosaic.
In the meantime, some students do not mind making a little good-natured fun of the Tiger Spot’s journey.
“When will they have it completely moved by?” Chester said. “Hopefully by the time I graduate.”
