Dreaming in Bamboo invites guests into the imaginative world of Tampa-native artist Alexander Nixon. His large bamboo sculptures feel as if they grew naturally from the landscape. After nearly two decades in New York City, where he created drawings of subway riders and map collages, Nixon returned home looking for a medium that felt alive and connected to nature. His first experiment, a giant Cherry Laurel chair, was destroyed by Florida insects in weeks. Bamboo quickly became the perfect solution: strong, fast-growing, and endlessly versatile.

Nixon collects bamboo from neighbors, local businesses, and anyone happy to have their groves trimmed. In his studio, he splits and sorts each piece by size, flexibility, and durability. Every sculpture begins with a sturdy bamboo “skeleton.” Thicker strips act as muscles and tendons. Finally, he weaves a thin outer “skin,” shaping and adjusting the form until it feels just right. All of his work is made from 100% bamboo.

Nixon taught himself every technique he uses. Years of trial and error, rainy days, mosquito bites, and countless splinters helped him master the process. His sculptures are huge but incredibly light, allowing even one person to lift a towering unicorn. The result is artwork that inspires wonder while celebrating the beauty of the natural world.

This exhibit is located in Arc Gallery on the 2nd Floor of the Dome

  Open until March 29

About Alexander Nixon

Alexander Nixon holds a BA from Stanford University, where he received the Nathan Oliveira Award for painting. He spent 18 years in New York creating drawings and large map mosaics before returning to Tampa in 2018. Now a professor of art history at the University of Tampa, he draws inspiration from ancient and modern sculpture. Bamboo has become his signature medium and the foundation of his artistic practice.