The big squiggly metal sculpture parked outside the old Towery building at Union and McLean will soon be moving to a private home just outside the city limits.
The piece by Mark Nowell, entitled “Open Container,” was sold to a “local eccentric and lover of contemporary art.” Though Nowell isn’t releasing the buyer’s name, he has announced that the new owner will allow Prince Mongo to make regular visits “in order to maintain strong galactic alliances.”
“Open Container,” which resembles a full moon with an oil well and a globe protruding from its top, was commissioned by Towery Publishing owner Bob Towery years ago. Towery Publishing closed its doors not long after the piece was erected.
For more on Memphis public art, read Andrea Lisle’s Flyer cover story.