In case you missed it
The proposal was presented during City Council’s packet briefing Dec. 16 and would authorize the city to execute an artwork commission agreement with Chihuly Studio for an original blown-glass sculpture by internationally recognized artist Dale Chihuly.
The piece would be installed in the Griffith Building, which will house the future City Arts Center alongside the Round Rock Visitor Center and the Round Rock Chamber.
Communications and Marketing Director Sara Bustilloz told council members the funding for the artwork was already approved in the city’s current budget and would not require new appropriations.
“The total cost of this contract is $360,000, which will be initially funded through general self-finance, and it’s my understanding this will be repaid through hotel occupancy tax funds, which is paid for by visitors staying in hotels in Round Rock,” Bustilloz said during the briefing.
Bustilloz said the artwork would serve as the visual centerpiece of the arts center and described it as the only permanent public Chihuly installation in Central Texas. She said its downtown location is intended to support increased foot traffic, tourism and the goals of the city’s Round Rock Creates Arts Master Plan.
What to expect
According to city documents, the artwork is described as a glass chandelier measuring approximately 9 feet high and 6 feet wide. The agreement also outlines a phased process that includes fabrication, a mock-up review and final installation, with fabrication beginning in January 2026 and installation expected in fall 2026.
City Council is expected to take up the agreement for official action during its regular meeting Dec. 18.
