The rock was painted in Pat's honor today. Since most of you don't know what that is or means I'll explain: UT has a ginormous rock that has served as a kind of student billboard since the 60s. Anyone can paint it (and no it's not always G-rated
).
I've seen everything from school politics, to x loves y, to marriage proposals, to congratulations for student accomplishments, acceptance into various majors, grad programs and congratulating the classes that are graduating. It's also used to thank people within the university or alumni community who've made a difference. And of course, I've also seen complex art and sports art that goes all out in support of our teams. Sports related images tend to get all the play in the press but it's so much more than for sports messaging.
For the most part, the rock speaks for the university community and serves as our voice on a lot more than not.
Although, the rock is painted over often, the administration has wisely allowed it to remain uncensored (your message may not last but you get to paint it and the good ones art or wit wise often do last for a few hours or even a day or two but since the rock is everyone's it's really just a matter of students and others choosing to wait as they certainly don't have to).
Anyways, here is what was painted today (Friday). I have zero doubts about who painted it. The understated simple elegance fits Pat to a tee and the color scheme is that of our Lady Vols.
Aesthetically, the Pat Summitt Plaza just outside of Thompson-Boling Aree and the makeshift vigil and later memorial that began to spring up as soon as we learned she might not make it through the night is miles ahead of it but I have no doubt which one Pat would've treasured most and that's the heartfelt message put together by her Lady Vols and UT students.
Here's the beginnings of a vigil at Pat Summitt Plaza when word started to get out that she might not make it:
