Sculpture Guide: Last of the Buffalo

Last of the Buffalo

By Michael Coleman
2006

Location: Front of the building, on hillside

Michael Coleman’s lasting goal has always been to exist in harmony with both nature and art. The representation of a wolf evokes many emotions. On the one hand it can be a symbol of  the wild West, evoking the decimation of the bison population at the hands of the U.S. government and settlers; and on the other hand it can evoke the controversy of the wolf’s presence in the West today, as ranchers and conservationists weigh the detriments and benefits to the reintroduction of the wolf.

How does this Coleman bronze—and its title—convey the objective for a balance in both?

Michael Coleman (b. 1946). Last of the Buffalo, 2006. Cast 4 of 20. Bronze, H 62 x W 57. Gift in Memory of Hal Tate from Naoma Tate and the Family of Hal Tate. 18.09