And we’re live: The ‘Year of the Eggheads’ kicks off this week with the launch of the campaign’s new microsite, Eggheads.UCDavis.edu, celebrating the art and legacy of UC Davis faculty member Robert Arneson and his on-campus Egghead sculptures. 

The website has everything you need to know about the history of each of Arneson’s sculptures, including a dynamic timeline of Arneson’s life on campus. The site also features ways to shop the new Arneson Egghead Collection.  

Their story is also part of “Unexpected Legends”, a three-part series that tells the tales of the UC Davis art department — from its founding artists to the present faculty and students (like alumni and artist Deborah Butterfield) who follow in the founders' footsteps. The first-generation artists, including Arneson, William T. Wiley, Richard Nelson and more, built their community in the ceramics building known as TB 9, or Temporary Building 9, and ignited an art revolution. 

The first part of that documentary is available now, with further installments forthcoming.

Where to celebrate April 4

UC Davis will host a campuswide celebration Thursday (April 4). Register for a ticket to the free event online. Here’s a breakdown of some of the day’s special events and discounts:

The Campus Store: Celebrate the 30th Birthday of the Eggheads with 30% off select merchandise and special $30 items on Thursday, April 4. Be sure to enter the Eggheads 30th birthday raffle by scanning the in-store QR code for a chance to win a selection of Egghead merchandise valued at over $100.

Memorial Union Games Area: Keep the spring break vibes going with 30% off bowling, billiards and gaming. While you’re there, scan the QR code to enter the Eggheads 30th Birthday raffle for a chance to win a $30 CoHo gift card. Stick around the MU’s south patio at noon for a special performance by the band Stepdad Passport, presented by the ASUCD Entertainment Council. 

Coffee House: Need a bite? At the CoHo, enjoy 30% off breakfast burritos (with eggs, of course) all day. 

Dining Commons / Latitude Restaurant: Egghead-themed desserts will be offered during dinner service on Thursday, April 4 at all three Dining Commons (Tercero, Segundo and Cuarto) and at Latitude Restaurant, while sweet supplies last.

Also, starting April 8 at Spokes at the Silo, six Egghead limited edition collectors cups — a new one each week — will be available while supplies last. Each cup will be $5 with or without a fountain drink and are also an option when upgrading any of the combo meals.

Manetti Shrem Museum: The museum will host several new offerings, including an “Aggies with Eggheads” photo display and a special lobby display entitled “Hatched: The Making of Robert Arneson’s Eggheads” showcasing early clay models of Arneson’s iconic sculptures. The museum also features a new Eggheads pop-up shop featuring exclusive Egghead products.

Shields Library: The lobby will host special egg-xhibits, featuring historical news and views about the Eggheads from The California Aggie and photographs of the installation and dedication of Bookhead.

Speaking of Bookhead, enjoy an eggtastic jazz ensemble and poetry performance in front of Shields Library, from 6-7 p.m. on April 4. It will feature a live student jazz ensemble performance courtesy of the Music Department and Egghead-inspired poetry by select MFA students from the creative writing program. 

Finish the day with a ceremonial lighting of the Eggheads at Bookhead and Eye on Mrak (Fatal Laff) from 7:30-8 p.m. 

RSVP to the campuswide celebration today and sign up to the Egghead mailing list for updates on future events.