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'Mining Minds' Special Lighting Honors Class of 2018

Last Updated on December 11, 2018 at 12:00 AM

Originally published December 11, 2018

By UC Staff

UTEP Communications

The “Mining Minds” pickaxe sculpture at UTEP’s University Avenue roundabout will be illuminated in blue and orange from Wednesday evening, Dec. 12, through Sunday evening, Dec. 16, to commemorate UTEP’s Class of 2018.

The 'Mining Minds' pickaxe sculpture will be illuminated in blue and orange from Wednesday evening, Dec. 12, through Sunday evening, Dec. 16, to commemorate UTEP’s Class of 2018. Photo: Laura Trejo / UTEP Communications
The “Mining Minds” pickaxe sculpture will be illuminated in blue and orange from Wednesday evening, Dec. 12, through Sunday evening, Dec. 16, to commemorate UTEP’s Class of 2018. Photo: Laura Trejo / UTEP Communications

Related: UTEP Celebrates 2018 Winter Commencement

“Mining Minds” is an iconic piece of public art installed in 2010 to enhance The University of Texas at El Paso campus. At night, orange lights illuminate the steel structure while light from LEDs emanates from the perforated ones and zeroes at each end of the pick to signify the language of modern technology. The binary code is loosely based on an inspirational quote from UTEP President Diana Natalicio's 2008 Convocation speech:

"Believe in yourself and in your dreams. Believe in UTEP and its aspirations. Share the dream!"

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 www.utep.edu/miningminds.