Cougars I and II Sculpture

What sleek creatures lounge before us, frozen in a bronze embrace? These are Cougars I and II, sculpted by Gwynn Murrill. Here at the southeast corner of Slauson Boulevard and Hannum Avenue, adjacent to Westfield Culver City, these magnificent felines command attention. Cougars I and II were two of the first artworks acquired by Culver City after its public art program began in 1988. The artist, Gwynn Murrill, specializes in animal sculptures. These cougars are part of a larger series she created. Interestingly, Murrill also created other public art pieces in Los Angeles. Look for her California Cougars, Angel, and Coyotes scattered throughout the city. She also crafted The Cat in Santa Monica. Murrill, who lives and works in Los Angeles, has a piece in the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena, as well as in corporate and private collections. Here at Cougars I and II, you can admire the powerful forms of these big cats. The sculptures are twelve feet long. They stretch out before us. Murrill chose the cougar because it’s a California native. The artist felt a connection between cats and libraries, making them a fitting addition to this area. Cougars I and II invite us to appreciate both art and nature, reminding us of the wildlife that shares our state.