Yale University recently made the decision to relocate the iconic Claes Oldenburg sculpture, “Lipstick (Ascending) on Caterpillar Tracks,” from its original home in the Morse College courtyard after etched letters were discovered on its surface. The sculpture, which has been a fixture on campus for 50 years, will now undergo conservation and care at the Yale University Art Gallery (YUAG) before being displayed in the Gallery’s outdoor sculpture garden in March 2026.
Claes Oldenburg, a Yale alum who created the 24-foot steel sculpture in collaboration with architecture students in 1969, gifted the artwork to the university as a surprise. Originally installed at the Beinecke Plaza for anti-Vietnam War protests, the sculpture was later reinstalled at the Morse College courtyard in 1974. However, following recent vandalism and sun damage concerns, University President Maurie McInnis announced the decision to move the sculpture to the back courtyard of YUAG for protection.
While the Morse College community mourns the loss of the beloved sculpture, some alumni argue that it should be returned to its original location at the Beinecke Plaza. Stuart Wrede and Sam Callaway, who were part of the group that commissioned Oldenburg for the project, believe that the sculpture was intended as a public protest work and should be displayed accordingly.
The Lipstick sculpture underwent a funded restoration over the summer through the Bank of America Art Conservation Project, which included repainting and recoating to preserve its integrity. Despite the controversy surrounding its relocation, the university remains committed to ensuring the long-term conservation and care of this iconic artwork.
For more information and updates on the relocation of the Claes Oldenburg sculpture, stay tuned to the Yale Daily News and Yale University Art Gallery’s official communications.
