Giant LEGO Exhibit Set To Debut In Tampa

TAMPA, FL — Tampa Bay area LEGO lovers will soon get a treat of epic proportions courtesy of the Vinik Family Foundation. The Art of the Brick, a giant, 100-work art exhibit, is set to open next month in downtown Tampa at no cost to the viewing public.

Featuring 100 works of art made out of LEGOs by Nathan Sawaya, the exhibit is considered “the world’s largest and most elaborate display of LEGO brick art,” according to the foundation. The colorful collection of works crafted by Sawaya includes not only original sculptures, but also “re-imagined versions of iconic art masterpieces, made entirely from LEGO bricks.” Some of the works include Sawaya’s own spin on such famed pieces as Van Gogh’s “Starry Night” and Leonardo Da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa.”

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In addition to Sawaya’s solo works, The Art of the Brick also includes photos taken by Dean West “infused” with LEGO bricks, according to a media release from the foundation.

Works on display will include Sawaya’s famous “Yellow,” which is a life-size LEGO sculpture of a man ripping his chest open to reveal a cascade of yellow bricks. A 20-foot-long T-rex skeleton will also be on display along with dozens of other pieces.

The Vinik Family Foundation is a charitable organization started by Jeff and Penny Vinik. The foundation also brought “The Beach” to Tampa’s Amalie Arena last August.

"Nathan's inspiring story and unique perspective of art is what makes this exhibit a ‘can't miss’ for all ages this summer," said Jeff and Penny Vinik in a statement. "Our hope is that everyone in our community will be able to experience this incredible exhibition up-close. Art is both impactful and inspirational, and we hope to continue share world-class cultural events like The Art of the Brick with Tampa Bay."

The exhibit debuts on Friday, June 23 at 802 E. Whiting St. in downtown Tampa. It will remain open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday through Sept. 4. For more information about visiting the exhibit, visit Art of the Brick online. There is no cost to attend.

Photo courtesy of Eckley Media