Recyclosaurus Rex Gets a Facelift

Since 1993, MOSI’s Recyclosaurus Rex has been a Tampa landmark. Standing 20 feet tall and 40 feet long, this dino’s belly is filled with aluminum cans and plastic containers. He stands as a gigantic recycling reminder for thousands of commuters each day!

Recyclosaurus Rex is currently undergoing a facelift. Artist Terry Klaaren, the original designer of the giant orange dinosaur, is currently on a lift working on Rex. The MOSI mascot will be undergoing repairs to his structure, a re-wrapping with more construction fencing and will have his car headlight eyes replaced with gleaming new bulbs. Also his banner post is being re-designed so that MOSI staff can easily switch out Rex’s flags.

If you are driving down Fowler Avenue this week, make sure to take a peek at the work and wave at Mr. Klaaren.

Inspired by da Vinci: A Mona Lisa of another sort.

Terry Klaaren’s Monique Alyssa

For the Inspired by da Vinci art exhibit in the MOSI Founder’s Hall, Terry Klarren submitted a work that was inspired by DaVinci’s masterpiece, the Mona Lisa. Entitled “Monique Alyssa”, Terry blended the subject of da Vinci’s best known painting with the painting style of Vincent Van Gogh.

A selection of Mr. Klaaren’s paintings can also be seen in the MOSI 4th Floor Gallery space. As you exit the IMAX theater on the fourth floor, head around to the right side to see these lovely works.

You can see more of Terry Klarren’s artwork at his website klarrenart.com.

Inside the da Vinci: The Genius exhibit there is an entire room dedicated to the da Vinci masterpiece, the Mona Lisa, showing minute details of the composition and revealing secrets of one of the world’s best known paintings.