ASUI Recognition Monument
In recognition of Associated Students University of Idaho (ASUI)’s enduring legacy of support for the Dome and many other vital campus resources, the university is commissioning a monument to be located near the P1FCU Kibbie Dome. This permanent monument will stand tall in recognition of ASUI’s contributions to student life and the vibrant Vandal community we’ve built together.
Our university community came together in an incredible way to start bringing this historic project to life. Through a survey completed by over 1,500 students, alumni, faculty and fans, we gathered insights that shaped the final concept of our future Joe Vandal ASUI Recognition Monument. What started as an idea has now taken form, with sculptor Gareth Curtiss bringing the vision to life right here on campus.
In February, Curtiss visited and worked at the Moscow campus, engaging with students and the community to deepen his understanding of Joe’s spirit and history. His time here was not only about sculpting — it was about storytelling, collaboration and honoring our traditions.
Timelapse of the Artist’s Progress
Watch the transformation of the sculpture as Gareth Curtiss worked on the clay maquette, shaping the foundation of what will become a lasting tribute to our university's legacy.
In the News: Artist's Visit Highlights
- U of I hosts Montana sculptor as he begins the process of creating a 9-foot-tall Joe Vandal Statue | Spokesman
- Artist hopes statue will capture spirit of U of I | Moscow Pullman Daily News
- University of Idaho commissions Montana artist to create bronze sculpture of Joe Vandal mascot | KREM
Project Timeline: What’s Next?
The next phase of the project is well underway, as the sculpture moves from concept to casting and, ultimately, installation. Below is our anticipated timeline:
- Summer 2025 – Final refinements, life-size clay mold creation and plaza construction
- Fall 2025 – Bronze casting begins
- Winter 2025 – Sculpture patina and finishing touches
- Spring 2026 – Monument installation and unveiling event (date to be determined)
About the Artist
We are thrilled to announce that an artist has been selected for our much-anticipated campus monument! After a thoughtful and collaborative selection process involving 35 submissions and various interviews with talented artists from all over the country, our creative committee reached a unanimous decision to move forward with Gareth Curtiss.
Curtiss stood out for his exceptional engagement throughout the process, his willingness to connect with our community and his impressive depth of experience in public art. With more than 30 years of experience, he has worked on impactful commissions for other universities and institutions, bringing vision and craftsmanship to life. Beyond that, Curtiss demonstrated a strong commitment to involving our campus family in the creation process, ensuring that this monument will truly represent ASUI’s contributions and our Vandal community.
“I am delighted to have been selected to create the statue of Joe Vandal and am looking forward to working with the Vandal community on this great project. Together, we will be making a character already larger than life, much, much larger!” — Gareth Curtiss, Sculptor
Curtiss is from northwestern Montana and has completed several bronze sculptures for various municipalities, athletic teams and public spaces. See Curtiss’s previous work here: garethcurtiss.com