One Tank Trip: A look at the art along Bayshore Boulevard

TAMPA (FOX 13) - The latest One Tank Trip does not take us far. 

As Russell Rhodes leaves the FOX 13 News station near downtown Tampa, it’s a quick drive down the road to Bayshore Boulevard, where he gets out and walks.

One spot in particular is of interest at Bayshore Avenue and Mason Street, right near the Academy of the Holy Names.

It’s where a beautiful piece of art was recently installed for all to see called "Visual Welcome" by Yaacov Agam. 

It's been in Tampa since the 90's, but only recently has it been spruced up and given a high profile address.
Robin Nigh is the Manager of Tampa's Art Programs Division. She says the Agam is where it needs to be:  outside.

She says it’s not a museum piece, and that’s because its colorful, patterned and pillar-like structure appears to move as people pass by. A spot like Bayshore Boulevard- frequented by bikers, runners, walkers and drivers alike- is just perfect.

Other public art lines the strip as well, but according to Nigh, not just any art would do. Each piece has to be resilient so it can withstand sunlight, wind, salt and water. 

Thankfully, each piece selected for the Bayshore strip does just that.

As Nigh says, "What would it look like without it?  If it weren't there, you would notice it."