“Have you ever felt a connection to something ancient?” I ask. Before you stands the Krypton 1 x 6 x 18 sculpture. This isn’t just any artwork. This bronze monolith has stood on the University of Hawai’i at Manoa campus since 1973. It’s a mysterious presence. A silent observer of decades of student life.
Designed by Bruce Hopper the Krypton sculpture is a striking replica of the famous monolith from 2001: A Space Odyssey. It’s almost identical in size and shape. The sculpture is more than just a beautiful object. It’s a symbol of inspiration. A beacon of hope for the future.
Originally the sculpture featured a sound system. Low tones from the film played softly. It created an otherworldly ambiance. Sadly this system was deactivated after just a year. Fortunately a recent restoration project in 2019 by the Hawai’i State Foundation on Culture & the Arts brought back some of its magic. The sound system is being redesigned. It promises to bring a new dimension to this iconic piece.
The restoration wasn’t just about the sound. It was a commitment to preserving a piece of history. A reminder of the power of art to inspire and endure. The Krypton sculpture is a testament to this enduring power. A timeless symbol in a constantly changing world.
Professor Jelena Maricic sees it as a wonderful distraction. A reminder of our higher goals. She believes it symbolizes the possibility of other civilizations out there. Kevin Croker a postdoctoral fellow shares this sentiment. He feels it embodies the idea that a giant leap forward happens near where the monolith sits.
Today the Krypton 1 x 6 x 18 sculpture stands tall. A mysterious monument to imagination and possibility. It invites contemplation. It sparks curiosity. It stands as a testament to human creativity. More than just a sculpture it’s a piece of living history. A symbol of hope and wonder right here on the University of Hawai’i campus. A place where you can almost feel the pulse of the future.