Mining Minds: Special Lighting Commemorates First Day in 1914, Homecoming

Last Updated on September 27, 2019 at 12:00 AM

Originally published September 27, 2019

By UC Staff

UTEP Communications

The “Mining Minds” pickaxe sculpture at UTEP’s Sun Bowl-University roundabout will be illuminated in blue and orange beginning Saturday, Sept. 28, through Saturday, Oct. 5, in honor of two special occasions at The University of Texas at El Paso.

The “Mining Minds” pickaxe sculpture at UTEP’s Sun Bowl-University roundabout will be illuminated in blue and orange beginning Saturday, Sept. 28, through Saturday, Oct. 5, in honor of two special occasions at The University of Texas at El Paso. Photo: Laura Trejo / UTEP Communications

The special lighting celebrates the University’s 2019 Homecoming festivities, a tradition that began in 1929. This year’s Homecoming celebration is meant to be a world of fun with the student-selected theme – UTEP Goes Global – incorporated throughout the week’s activities designed to welcome alumni and friends back to campus, engage students and celebrate Miner pride. For more information on Homecoming events, visit utep.edu/homecoming.

The special lighting also commemorates the first day of school 105 years ago, on Sept. 28, 1914. That day, the first 27 students started classes at the State School of Mines and Metallurgy, now UTEP.

“Mining Minds” is an iconic piece of public art installed in 2010 to enhance the UTEP campus. At night, orange lights illuminate the steel structure while light from LEDs emanate from the perforated “ones” and “zeroes” at each end of the pick.

On special occasions, including historic dates, major annual milestones and to celebrate special accomplishments, the pick is illuminated in blue and orange.

Learn more about the statue and its artist at miningminds.utep.edu.