Alamo Colleges District Unveils La Aula at Westside Education and Training Center

New public artwork celebrates education, cultural heritage and the collective history of San Antonio’s West Side.

At a ceremony on Thursday, August 13, the Alamo Colleges District unveiled La Aula, a monumental outdoor sculpture created by acclaimed artist Olaniyi Akindiya, also known as Akirash, at the Westside Education and Training Center.

Located in the circular drive near the facility’s main entrance, the sculpture serves as a welcoming focal point for learners, employees and community members. The work reflects the West Side’s history, culture and natural landscape while honoring the Westside Education and Training Center’s role as a place of learning, workforce development and community connection.

“La Aula represents the power of education, community and the arts to bring people together, inspire new ideas and strengthen our shared sense of belonging,” said Dr. Mike Flores, Alamo Colleges District Chancellor. “This remarkable work creates a space for reflection and creativity while reminding every learner and visitor that they belong here. It also demonstrates how community colleges can serve as cultural hubs that welcome the public, elevate local talent and create opportunities for people to connect.”

The artwork was commissioned as part of the 2017 Alamo Colleges Bond Program, which supported the construction of the Westside Education and Training Center’s $24.3 million facility. The bond investment included funding for public art to create vibrant, welcoming learning environments that reflect the communities served by the Alamo Colleges District.

Akirash drew inspiration from San Antonio’s rivers, creeks, trees, wildflowers, butterflies and birds. The sculpture’s colorful finish was also influenced by papel picado, Indigenous Mexican traditions and the cultural celebrations that are an important part of the city’s identity.

“I want this artwork to serve as a refuge, as a symbol of the communal,” said Akirash.”I want it to be their story, our story and your story; a symbol of collective history, diversity of cultures and religions; a place of exploration, knowledge, inspiration and creativity.”

The sculpture’s title, La Aula, translates to “the classroom,” reflecting the idea that learning can take place beyond the walls of a traditional academic space. The work incorporates abstract forms representing people of different ages, backgrounds, cultures, languages and beliefs coming together to build a shared future.

Akirash chose the feminine article “La,” as an artistic expression honoring mothers as sources of protection and security, pillars of families and builders of community.

Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Akirash studied biochemistry before pursuing fine and applied art at the Institute of Textile Technology, Arts and Design in Lagos. He now lives and works in Pflugerville, Texas.

His public artworks have been commissioned by cities and public entities throughout Texas, including Austin, DeSoto, Pflugerville and Travis County. His work has also been featured in exhibitions, biennials and artist residencies across the United States and internationally.

Through sculpture, installation and performance, Akirash explores identity, history, justice, trauma, culture and the social systems that shape everyday life. He describes art as a way to encourage dialogue, reflection, healing and connection.

As visitors enter and leave the Westside Education and Training Center, Akirash hopes the sculpture will offer a lasting message: “Not goodbye, but see you soon.”