Best Eye On Central Austin

Griffin School Eagle Eye Totem Pole

South Austin's got its Blue Genie on South First to keep it safe and sound. Now Hyde Park has something more than Mr. Potatohead to ward off evil spirits and watch over things. This totem has the head of an eagle, just like the elegant Griffin for whom the school is named. The body, however, is not that of a lion: It is all heart - a big red heart - and a big eye. Last spring, substitute art teacher Chuck Weaver initiated the project with the students, who were, quite frankly, not thrilled with the idea. The fact that they never named the noble beast might be some sort of silent protest. But whaddya expect from a bunch of kids at a nontraditional high school? Hopefully they won't hate us for giving it a temporary name and for showing our love for their work. It's a fine addition to the center-city landscape.

Griffin School
5001 Evans, 512/454-5797
www.griffinschool.org