The Sentinel

The works of Tex Jernigan look chaotic from most angles, but when viewed from a certain, optimal perspective, it reveals a perfect sense of organization. “The Sentinel” follows this form. It appears as a large, aggressive monster watching and guarding. It is a watcher but as a sculpture it is something being watched. However, as you look down the barrel of the piece and see the sky behind it, you no longer see the wildness but instead a burst radiating from a central point.

This work was originally part of the Leawood Art on Loan program. Jernigan was a senior at the Kansas City Art Institute when the work was originally installed. During the loan period, the sculpture was highly acclaimed and popular. When the loan period expired, the City of Leawood purchased the work and made it a part of their permanent collection.