Sculptor Kent Ullberg has left an unforgettable mark on Corpus Christi. Originally from Sweden, Ullberg’s love for the sea and wildlife has taken him around the world, but it’s here on the Texas coast where his art feels especially at home. His larger-than-life bronzes, whether it’s a marlin leaping skyward or a dancer frozen mid-motion, blend natural beauty with cultural meaning, turning city streets and waterfronts into open-air galleries. For locals, his sculptures are familiar landmarks and for visitors, they’re inspiring discoveries that tell the story of Corpus Christi in a uniquely artistic way.

Why You Should See Kent Ullberg's Art 

• Celebrate Coastal Culture: His sculptures echo the natural beauty and identity of Corpus Christi, from sailfish leaping with the wind to giant bison representing strength. They highlight the unique mix of wildlife and culture that makes the Texas coast special. Each piece tells a story that ties the city to its Gulf heritage in a way that feels both timeless and local.
• Experience Monumental Scale: These aren’t just statues. They’re larger-than-life works of art that double as city landmarks. Their size and presence make them impossible to ignore and unforgettable once you’ve seen them. Standing beside one of Ullberg’s sculptures gives you a sense of awe and wonder that smaller works simply cannot match.
• Blend of Science and Art: Ullberg’s wildlife sculptures are anatomically precise yet fluid, showing both artistic grace and natural accuracy. His background in natural history and design allows him to capture details that bring animals to life in bronze. It is this balance between realism and artistry that makes his work so compelling to audiences of all ages.
• Accessible to All: Many of his works are public and free to visit, making them an inclusive way to experience world-class art. Whether you are strolling along the bayfront or visiting a museum, his pieces are placed where anyone can enjoy them. This accessibility turns the city into an open-air gallery where art meets everyday life.
• Global Talent, Local Treasure: Although his art can be found worldwide, Corpus Christi offers a special concentration of his work, making the city a must-visit destination for art lovers. Having so many of his sculptures in one place gives visitors and residents a rare opportunity to experience an artist’s vision on a grand scale. It is a point of pride for the community and a reminder that world-renowned creativity thrives on the Texas coast.

5 Popular Kent Ullberg Sculptures in Corpus Christi 

Wind in the Sails

Located along the Corpus Christi bayfront, this dramatic sculpture features two sailfish soaring out of stylized waves. The piece captures both the power of the Gulf and the ever-present wind that defines the Coastal Bend. It has become a favorite photo spot for visitors looking to experience Corpus Christi’s connection to the sea.

It is I ( The Surfing Jesus)

Standing in front of First United Methodist Church, this 15-foot bronze depicts Jesus calming the storm at sea. Locals affectionately call it “Surfing Jesus” due to its waterside setting and boat imagery. The sculpture is both a work of faith and a playful symbol of the city’s coastal character.

Giant Bison

Installed outside the Art Museum of South Texas, this monumental bronze bison symbolizes strength, resilience, and the untamed spirit of the American West. It’s a powerful visual anchor on the museum grounds and a favorite photo op for locals and visitors alike.

Leaping Marlin

Located at the entrance to North Padre Island, the Leaping Marlin welcomes visitors with its towering bronze figure, appearing mid-leap, frozen in an elegant arc above the waves. It’s a signature Ullberg piece and a photo-worthy marker for those entering the island.

Danzamar

Meaning “sea dancer,” this bronze sculpture of a woman with a flowing shell-like skirt evokes motion and grace. It reflects Ullberg’s ability to celebrate human creativity with the same reverence he gives wildlife. You can find this sculpture in the Atrium of the Performing Arts Center at Texas A&M Corpus Christi. 

See Kent Ullberg Sculptures at The Art Museum of South Texas

All of Ullberg

Step into All of Ullberg and you’ll find yourself immersed in the wild, vivid world of Kent Ullberg. This showcase at the Art Museum of South Texas brings together decades of his most powerful sculptures, from soaring sailfish and great bison to graceful eagles and creatures both land bound and marine. Cast in bronze with incredible realism and spirit, each piece reflects his deep affinity for wildlife, his studies in anatomy, and a life lived by the sea. All of Ullberg invites viewers to see the natural world through his eyes, where detail, motion, and beauty converge. This display is part of their permanent collection, and will be up through December 31, 2025 in the Ullberg and Paulson Galleries. Beyond All of Ullberg, you can catch glimpses of his sculptures throughout the museum year-round. 

Whether you’re walking the bayfront, exploring a museum, or crossing onto Padre Island, Kent Ullberg's pieces remind you of the beauty, strength, and culture that define the coast. Be sure to check out our upcoming events for even more ways to enjoy Corpus Christi. For insider tips and inspiration, explore our visitor guides packed with local favorites and hidden gems. And don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter to stay in the loop on the latest happenings along the coast.