Buffalo Adds to MAC Decor

Out and about in OKC, tourists and residents alike have enjoyed artistic versions of our state animal, the buffalo. Fifty painted, fiberglass buffalo were placed in Oklahoma City (and more across the state) by the Nature Conservancy as a fundraising project. Corporations, foundations, civic groups, merchants, and individuals sponsored a buffalo to be painted and decorated with their logos or theme choice. This fall, Heritage Hall received a donation of an athletically themed buffalo to place in the lobby area of The MAC.

Donor Jeff Oakley ’77 said he got the idea while discussing landscaping for the new Class of 1977 Middle School with Headmaster Guy Bramble. “As an alternate idea to the architects’ planting scheme in the fifth and eighth grade courtyards, I suggested something fun along the line of colorful art or a buffalo (if we could locate one).

Our thought was to have something fun and creative the kids could look out to from their respective hallways. After several calls to contacts who previously bought and restored buffaloes, I got one from the Nature Conservatory.”

Once purchased, it was decided that The MAC would provide much more visibility for the buffalo. Oakley commissioned Lavonne Strickland to design and paint the statue with an athletic theme. Since its debut at the first home football game, Oakley said he has received positive feedback. “It’s fun; something a little different to greet everyone as they enter The MAC. Kids really seem to enjoy it and it’s a cool conversation piece.”