Dallas, Texas -- Dallas-based Brad Oldham Sculpture has been named #10 on the list of the top 50 public artists in the United States according to The Power of Public Art study by CODAworx, which examines the influence of public art installations on urban spaces and communities.
The study recognizes artists who have made substantial contributions to enhancing public spaces through their innovative artworks. Brad Oldham and Christy Coltrin of Brad Oldham Sculpture, are listed at #10 for their contribution to the public art sector exemplified in their recent project, Bloom Where You’re Planted in Surprise, AZ.
The 20-foot tall, mirror-polished stainless steel saguaro cactus features a cascade of colorful flower blooms that are internally lit. The initial impression of the majestic sculpture reflects the soulful rhythms of the nearby Sonoran Desert and White Tank Mountains. For viewers who take a closer look, within the backside of the cactus is a lost-wax cast bronze woman with her hand cupped to her ear, ready to hear secrets and dreams. At night, those whispered communications twinkle out of the lit blooms into the night dessert sky.
Brad Oldham and Christy Coltrin, renowned for their distinctive and imaginative sculptures, have been a transformative figure in the field of public art. Their installations, ranging from whimsical characters to monumental structures, are celebrated for their ability to engage viewers and create a sense of place. In addition to Bloom Where You’re Planted, the company's portfolio includes iconic pieces such as The Traveling Man series in Dallas, TX, and The Bee Effect in Walnut Creek, CA, each of which has become a beloved landmark in its respective city.
"It is an honor to be recognized by CODAworx as one of the top public artists in the country," said Oldham. "This ranking is a testament to the hard work and creativity of our entire team. Our goal has always been to create art that not only beautifies public spaces but also fosters a connection between people and their environments."
According to CODAworx’s research:
- The public art industry contributed more than $4.4 billion to the economy in 2023.
- Public artists earned approximately $1.7 billion in public commissions last year.
- The average public art commission fee was $380,000.
- Artists spend 70-90% of public art commissions on collaborators and sub-contractors such as fabricators, engineering firms, lighting, logistics and technology companies.
“The valuation of the public art industry is eye-opening,” said Toni Sikes, CEO of CODAworx. “The data underscores the economic significance of public art. We are excited to give readers a peek under the cover of this invisible economy – which is actually a flourishing ecosystem of creative magicians.”
“The Bloom Where You’re Planted art piece created by Brad Oldham Sculpture is an example of not only the beauty of art, but also the way it can highlight a sense of place,” said Julie Akerly, Arts Manager for the City of Surprise, Arizona. “The Arizona desert saguaro cactus represents our geography and the bronze image of our City’s founder within the cactus pays tribute to our history. It all comes together in a very magical way that invites curiosity, interaction, and imagination.”
Celebrating its 25th anniversary, Brad Oldham Sculpture continues to push the boundaries of public art with projects that captivate and inspire. The company remains dedicated to its mission of transforming spaces and enhancing communities through the power of art.
“Our favorite part of installing a public-art sculpture is the unexpected way it resonates within the community,” said Coltrin. “Because art is a shared experience, each piece is completed by what the individual viewer brings to the experience.”
The Brad Oldham Sculpture team is currently installing a $2 million sculpture collection at the OAK mixed-used development in Oklahoma City which features polished stainless-steel clouds supported by a set of trees made from steel and bronze and a cowboy roping an errant cloud from the second story hotel balcony. The project will be dedicated in mid-September along with the opening of The Lively Hotel, a Tapestry Collection by Hilton.
About Brad Oldham Sculpture:
Brad Oldham Sculpture is a Dallas-based studio specializing in the creation of public art installations. Founded by Brad Oldham and Christy Coltrin, the studio is known for its innovative and engaging sculptures that transform public spaces and enrich communities. With a focus on craftsmanship and creativity, Brad Oldham Sculpture has earned a reputation as one of the leading public art studios in the United States.
About CODAworx:
CODAworx is on a mission to demonstrate the power of public art to change the world. As the public art industry leader, we provide creative professionals a platform to showcase their work, connect, and find opportunities. Powered by a database showcasing thousands of projects with a collective budget of over $4 billion dollars, CODAworx leverages live events, awards programs, publications, data, and digital tools to empower public art in the experience economy.
