Austin's Art in Public Places Artwork "Absolute Equality: Unity Tunnel" Named 2026 CODAworx Winner for Best Collaboration

Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment’s (ACME) “Absolute Equality: Unity Tunnel,” an iconic Art in Public Places (AIPP) work by Texas artist Reginald Adams, has been selected as the 2026 CODAworx Winner for Best Collaboration. 

The CODAawards honor excellence in commissioned art around the world. This year’s jurors were particularly impressed by the collaborative spirit behind “Unity Tunnel,” describing the project as “the very definition of collaboration.” This recognition celebrates the partnership among AIPP, Adams, Austin Transportation and Public Works, Austin Capital Delivery Services, HDR Inc., Jay-Reese Contractors, Inc., Austin Parks and Recreation, local non-profit The Trail Conservancy, and the over 250 Austin residents who shaped every stage of its development. 

From CODAworx - “This year's competition drew 302 submissions from 19 countries, collectively representing more than $123 million in commissions to artists. A distinguished panel of jurors from the fields of art, architecture, and design selected winners across twelve categories spanning sculpture, murals, light art, and beyond — recognizing the creative professionals whose work transforms environments, shapes experiences, and strengthens community connection." 

A Triumph of Community Partnership 

“Unity Tunnel” was created through an extensive community engagement process designed to ensure that Austin residents had a meaningful role in shaping the artwork.  

From early community surveys and engagements to hands-on workshops at the Mendez Recreation Center and The Mosaic Workshop, AIPP and Adams worked alongside community members to develop “Unity Tunnel” with broad and meaningful public participation. 

The project took innovative approaches to building trust for community participation. Community activities included sound baths, guided meditation, and quiet reflection, helped ensure that voices across all ages and backgrounds were included, inspiring community pride and shaping an artwork meant to endure for generations. 

A Celebrated Moment for Austin’s Public Art Program 

“This recognition shines a light on the power of collaboration in public art,” said Angela Means, ACME Director. “’Unity Tunnel’ is a testament to what’s possible when artists, residents, and City partners come together with imagination, dedication, and heart.” 

CODAworx is scheduled to publicly announce the 2026 award winners on Monday, August 31, followed by worldwide media promotion. “Unity Tunnel” will also be celebrated at the CODAsummit 2026 in Santa Fe, New Mexico where the project will be featured in a video presentation. 

About “Absolute Equality: Unity Tunnel” 

“Absolute Equality: Unity Tunnel” transforms the 160-foot-long underpass beneath Pleasant Valley Road at Lady Bird Lake into an iconic public artwork, highlighting Austin's culture and heritage heard directly from the voices of over 250 Austin residents.  
 
The artwork masterfully features over 689,000 vibrant hand-laid tiles that make up the 1,000 square-foot mosaic mural, over 1,000 square feet of custom flagstone, and 3,000 square feet of a painted ceiling mural. The artwork is by Texas artist, Reginald C. Adams, a visionary public artist and community developer whose work has woven art and civic life together for over 30 years. 


About Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment 
Austin Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment (ACME) is committed to fostering a vibrant, inclusive creative ecosystem that celebrates and supports Austin's artists, musicians, entertainment venues, and cultural institutions. ACME is a centralized hub offering resources, funding opportunities, and strategic programs that promote local talent and drive economic growth.