Lamar University Professor Drew Inspiration from Machu Picchu

A sculpture professor recently visited the ancient site to influence his latest artistic creations.

Updated on Oct. 4, 2026 in Geography

Bold vector editorial illustration of an abstract stone sculpture on a workshop table, representing the fusion of ancient masonry and modern art. — Lamar University sculpture professor Kurt Dyrhaug is incorporating the architectural influence of Machu Picchu into a new series of contemporary sculptural works. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Lamar University sculpture professor Kurt Dyrhaug has drawn creative inspiration from a recent visit to the 15th-century Incan citadel of Machu Picchu. Dyrhaug utilized his faculty development leave to travel to the site, which is located in the Andes Mountains.

Why it matters

The complex architecture of the site, which consists of approximately 200 structures, provides a unique aesthetic foundation for Dyrhaug to translate into contemporary sculpture. His work incorporates unconventional materials to capture the essence of the historic location.

Machu Picchu is situated at an elevation of nearly 8,000 feet and contains approximately 200 individual structures. The site is estimated to have had a historical population capacity of 500 people.

The players

Kurt Dyrhaug

He is a professor of sculpture at Lamar University who uses his academic research to inform his artistic practice.

Hiram Bingham III

He was the explorer and academic credited with bringing Machu Picchu to international attention in 1911.

The details

To construct his new works, Dyrhaug uses a combination of gesso, sand, metal coatings, patinas, and watercolor pigments. He employs grinders to cut directly into these materials, reflecting the intricate construction methods of the ancient Incan site.

The site was built during the 15th century.
The citadel was abandoned in the 16th century.
Hiram Bingham III brought the site to international attention in 1911.
Kurt Dyrhaug visited Machu Picchu recently during faculty development leave.

Deeper Dive

This artistic endeavor follows the historical precedent of the 1911 international discovery of Machu Picchu by Hiram Bingham III. Dyrhaug's work extends the long legacy of academic engagement with the site by translating its structural forms into contemporary art.

The application of industrial techniques like grinding and metal coating to fine art can lead to more durable and visually distinct sculpture for public collections. These artistic developments may eventually influence the materials used in regional gallery exhibits.

The takeaway

Artistic inspiration often stems from deep engagement with historical sites that challenge contemporary perspectives. Readers interested in creative projects can look to their own travel experiences to find unique structural or cultural elements for their own hobbies.