Huntsville, August 12, 2025
News Summary
Huntsville has introduced a new public art installation in downtown, located in front of the Trilogy Hotel. The feature piece, the Moon Gate sculpture, is dedicated to community figure Olin B. King and was created by local artist Glenn Dasher. Measuring 21-by-25 feet, the sculpture offers a celestial theme with optical illusions and incorporates historical elements. The public art initiative will expand with upcoming tours and events, engaging residents and visitors in the city’s vibrant art scene.
Huntsville has unveiled a new public art installation in downtown, enhancing the city’s artistic landscape. Located in front of the newly constructed Trilogy Hotel, this space-inspired artwork is easily accessible for visitors to Big Spring Park. While no name has been announced for this installation, it adds to Huntsville’s growing recognition for public art.
One of the highlights of the unveiling is the Moon Gate sculpture, dedicated in honor of Olin B. King, the founder of SCI Systems and an influential figure in the community. The dedication ceremony for the Moon Gate took place on a Thursday afternoon in the heart of the city. This impressive metal sculpture, measuring 21-by-25 feet, was created by local artist Glenn Dasher. The Moon Gate is positioned in the Medical District of Huntsville and features a celestial theme including hanging planets and wind-activated fans that create a dynamic visual experience.
The design also incorporates unique “moray patterns” that produce optical illusions, further enriching the aesthetic value of the sculpture. The columns of the Moon Gate were salvaged from the old Parkway City Mall, adding a sense of history and repurposing to the piece. Dasher expressed excitement about the project and appreciated the creative freedom given to him during the design process.
This sculpture was a collaborative effort involving King’s daughters, Liz Smith and Rosemary Lee, who participated in its conception. Originally, the Moon Gate was intended to be placed at the hospital’s Orthopedic & Spine Tower, but logistical issues resulted in its current downtown location.
Olin B. King was a pivotal figure in Huntsville’s development, having served on the founding board of the Huntsville Hospital Foundation since 1978. At its peak, SCI Systems was the largest private employer in Madison County, providing jobs for about 6,000 individuals.
In addition to the Moon Gate, Arts Huntsville is set to expand its public art tours, starting in February and shifting to a schedule of “First Fridays” each month. These tours will showcase the “Our Civic Canvas” collection, which celebrates Huntsville’s rich culture and history. The new City Hall, which opened in May 2024, designed by architect Mark Coyle, will also showcase artwork from various artists.
Residents and visitors can reserve spots for the City Hall Public Art Tours online via the Arts Huntsville website. Furthermore, the inaugural South Huntsville Art Walk & Chalk event will take place on April 5, featuring a sidewalk chalk art competition and a host of family-friendly activities.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | In front of Trilogy Hotel, Downtown Huntsville |
| Sculpture Name | Moon Gate (dedicated to Olin B. King) |
| Size | 21-by-25 feet |
| Artist | Glenn Dasher |
| Design Features | Celestial theme, hanging planets, wind-activated fans, optical illusion patterns |
| Historical Elements | Columns salvaged from Parkway City Mall |
| Community Involvement | Involvement of Olin B. King’s daughters |
FAQ
What is the Moon Gate sculpture?
The Moon Gate is a large metal sculpture dedicated to Olin B. King, measuring 21-by-25 feet. It was created by local artist Glenn Dasher and features a celestial theme.
Where is the Moon Gate located?
The Moon Gate is located in the Medical District of Huntsville, in front of the Trilogy Hotel.
When will the public art tours begin?
The public art tours in Huntsville will begin in February and will occur on the first Friday of each month.
What events are happening in the upcoming months related to public art?
The first South Huntsville Art Walk & Chalk event is scheduled for April 5, featuring sidewalk chalk art competitions and family-friendly activities.
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Additional Resources
- Hville Blast: New Chrome Art Installation
- Rocket City Now: Moon Gate Sculpture
- Huntsville Business Journal: Jefferson Alley Grand Opening
- Rocket City Mom: Huntsville Murals
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Public Art
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
