SPIRIT OF THE MUSTANGS

Monumental Bronze, 1 1/3rd Life-Size, Limited Ed. of 15 – Created 2018
(Commissioned by MSU Texas Provost, Dr. James Johnston – Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas)

In 2018, Vic received a prestigious commission: to bring to life the captivating ‘Spirit of the Mustangs.’ Dr. James Johnston, the visionary Provost of MSU Texas, entrusted Vic with a profound task – to encapsulate the educational journey through four magnificent mustangs each representing a classification of Academia.

Standing at 1 1/3rd life-size, these monumental sculptures found their home in an organic water feature – a metaphor for the fluid, ever-changing path of lifelong learning. Each equine figure embodied a distinct class rank, symbolizing the transformative years of education. The freshman horse stands at the water’s edge. Timid and unsure, it hesitates, one hoof poised to take its inaugural step into academic life.  Its eyes, wide and questioning, mirror the uncertainty it feels in embarking on this new journey.

The sophomore horse is more confident, successfully navigating an obstacle with grace – a testament to overcoming challenges. The junior horse is hitting full stride looking straight ahead with his head held high. Finally, the senior horse is seen bursting forth from the water, leaping into life- an exuberant celebration of knowledge and growth.

On September 6, 2019, under the Texas sky, the grand unveiling of ‘Spirit of the Mustang’ took place in front of the newly built, Centennial Hall at Midwestern State University. The crowd witnessed not only Dr. Johnston’s and Vic’s sculpture coming to life, but a powerful narrative- the spirit of learning immortalized in bronze and water.