The Tampa Convention Center has successfully concluded a significant public art initiative, unveiling three permanent installations that celebrate the city’s rich cultural and natural heritage. This 16-month project culminated with the installation of ‘When Smoke Rises,’ a sculpture by artist Kipp Kobayashi. The piece, featuring a ship mast and smoke, draws inspiration from local mythology and traditions, such as the famed Gasparilla festival.

Art Reflecting Tampa’s Identity

Joining ‘When Smoke Rises’ are two other large-scale artworks: ‘Recurrence,’ a wave-shaped structure by Luftwerk that mirrors the local tides, and ‘Digital Fulminology,’ an algorithmic light sculpture by Jason Bruges Studio that simulates lightning strikes. These installations are designed to resonate with both locals and visitors, offering a visual narrative of Tampa’s unique environment and history.

Mayor Jane Castor emphasized the importance of these artworks in enhancing the visitor experience at the convention center. ‘This exceptional facility now welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors and locals alike with iconic art that not just enhances their experience but helps tell the story of Tampa,’ she stated.

Accessible Art for All

Robin Nigh, the city’s Arts and Cultural Affairs Director, highlighted the accessibility of these artworks, noting that they provide free public access to art that is deeply rooted in the local environment. ‘Some make the wonder of the natural world visible, others bring humor, some show the light of our times,’ Nigh explained. ‘There is something for everyone.’

The project began in February 2025 with the installation of ‘Recurrence,’ followed by ‘Digital Fulminology’ in February 2026, and concluded with ‘When Smoke Rises’ in June 2026. All three pieces are now on permanent display at the Tampa Convention Center, contributing to the city’s vibrant cultural scene.

Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.