Stefan Sagmeister
(b. 1962 Bregenz, Austria)
Now is Better, Bentonville
2022
Venetian glass mosaic installation
Courtsey of OZ Art NWA

Dozens of vibrant insects and arachnids made from mosaic glass scurry around the grounds of The Ledger building, leading visitors up a six-story bikeable ramp with precious gemstones in tow. Upon following the various bugs up the three-quarter mile ramp, a message spelled in the jewels brought by the hard-working bugs reads “Now is Better.”

Austrian artist Stefan Sagmeister conceived of this creepy-crawly installation to further enhance the playful architecture of the Ledger building and encourage curious cyclists and pedestrians to summit to the top. He selected 13 varied species of local Ozark insects, including the Hell Creek Crayfish, Buffalo Treehopper, Convergent Ladybug, and many more. Stefan adopted “Now is Better” as his personal mantra to convey an uplifting message amid the ongoing global challenges: “when assessed from a long-term perspective, most aspects of human development have improved.”

(written by Carlyn Wilder, 2024)