Georgia Tech Alumni Association Celebrates 100 Years

The Buzz around town isn't the recent fuel crisis in Atlanta or how to avoid the daily traffic jam on I-75. The real "Buzz Around Town" is a display of 25 Buzzes located around the campus of Georgia Institute of Technology.

Buzz is Ga. Tech's beloved mascot. Buzz doesn't look much like his 6 legged counterparts that are most likely found trying to partake of a picnicker's lunch or beverage. Tech's 36 year-old Yellow Jacket is most likely found at their sporting events and campus activities. Buzz is always dressed fly in black Converse sneakers and two white gloved hands.

The mixed media decorated Buzzes were designed to help celebrate the Alumni Association's 100 year anniversary. The fiberglass Buzzes are covered with everything from business attire, typical rock star gear and even cut up Buzz Cards. The school put out a call to local artists and they did their best to answer. The various artists all have ties to Atlanta and even the school indirectly. Students and local merchants also did their part in bringing the display from an idea to the finished product.

These Buzzes are the epitome of abstract art in that the exhibit is presented outside of the box. The materials used for decorations are everyday items and the scenes depicted are current and relevant to students and even the surrounding community.

When pressed on her favorite Buzz, Renee Queen enthusiastically admits, "I love all 25 of them; they are like my kids!" The Alumni Association staffer also added that the display is the perfect way to celebrate their 100 year anniversary.

Atlanta is no stranger to unique canvases; in 2003 the 140, "CowParade" public art display arrived in Atlanta. The decorated cows were seen grazing all over Atlanta before they were eventually auctioned off.

In 2005, the Town Turtles of Sandy Springs arrived and made their splash in Atlanta. While several of the turtles were auctioned off many of the decorative turtles can still be seen in hanging out at Sandy Springs parks and merchants. There is even a turtle near the reptile exhibit at the Atlanta Zoo.

The visual feast really showcases the schools pride. Some of the Buzzes have fallen victim to vandals suffering missing antennae's and other minor scrapes. A few have even had to be removed from the exhibit for a short hospital stay. All the Buzzes are back on display and can be enjoyed September - December 2008.

Be sure to check their website for more information about the display, the artist and the upcoming auction. You can also view and print a map of the display to make sure you don't miss any. Don't forget to cast your vote for your favorite Buzz at http://gtalumni.org/buzzaroundtown.