Telluride Penny Bear (Ursa Ravus)
A monumental 15-foot sculpture sheathed in 187,000 copper pennies, located on Telluride's main thoroughfare.
Ursa Ravus, widely known as the "Telluride Penny Bear," is a distinctive public art sculpture situated on Colorado Avenue in Telluride, Colorado. Created by the artist duo Lisa and Robert Ferguson (Mr & Mrs Ferguson Art), the massive bear stands as a welcoming figure near the entrance to the town, greeting visitors with a raised paw.
Installed in July 2019, the sculpture was commissioned by local residents Judy and Steven Gluckstern as an Independence Day gift to the community. It holds the distinction of being the first sanctioned piece of public art in Telluride, marking a significant milestone in the town's cultural landscape.
The artwork serves as a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike, encouraging tactile interaction and photography. Its unique construction—thousands of pennies creating a textured "fur"—makes it a standout feature of the Telluride Arts Walk and a whimsical addition to the historic district.
Key Facts
- Location: 635 E Colorado Ave, Telluride, CO 81320
- Artist: Mr & Mrs Ferguson Art
- Dimensions: 15 feet tall, 6,000 lbs
- Materials: 187,000 pennies, concrete, steel
- Installation: July 2019
- Access: Publicly viewable (Residential Yard)
Notable Features & Attributes
The Copper Coat
The "fur" is composed of approximately 187,000 copper pennies embedded in concrete, creating a shimmering, textured surface that weathers over time.
Artisan Detailing
Beyond the coins, the sculpture features specialized craftsmanship, including blacksmith-welded nose and claws, and custom blown glass eyes.
Engineering & Scale
Weighing 6,000 pounds, the structure is supported by a robust frame of steel tubing and carved styrofoam beneath the concrete and copper exterior.
Interactive Nature
Unlike many museum pieces, visitors are explicitly encouraged to touch the artwork, making the texture of the pennies a key part of the experience.
Visitor Information
Accessibility The bear is located in the front yard of a private residence at 635 E Colorado Ave but is positioned for public engagement. It is easily visible from the sidewalk and is wheelchair accessible via the paved street path.
Cost & Hours There is no admission fee to view Ursa Ravus. As an outdoor installation, it is available for viewing 24 hours a day, though daylight hours are recommended for photography.
Etiquette While touching the sculpture is encouraged, visitors should respect the private property boundaries of the residence behind the installation.
Local Context & Connections
The sculpture is a highlight of the Telluride Arts Walk and sits near other key cultural locations.