New Route 66 Centennial Sculpture at Curious Toast Cafe

Over the past year and into 2026, new Centennial focused public art has been a big piece of the 100 year celebration. While there have been many new murals popping up Downtown, it’s exciting to see other art forms being added to the Route 66 Centennial mix.

Shorty, created in 1999 by New Mexican artist Mark Padilla, showed up in December and is living in the parking lot next to Curious Toast Cafe. Carved from solid Texas limestone, Shorty depicts a father and his young boy riding in a classic truck - an image that captures both the innocence and adventure that have defined America’s relationship with the open road. Measuring 10 feet long, 4 feet wide, 4 feet high, and weighing approximately 10 tons, this piece invites reflection on the people and stories that made Route 66 a symbol of freedom, progress, and possibility.

Mark Padilla is a New Mexico–based sculptor whose craftsmanship and storytelling have earned regional and national recognition. One of his smaller works is part of the Smithsonian Institution’s collection, highlighting the artistic merit and cultural resonance of his work. Padilla’s dedication to stone as a medium mirrors the endurance of Route 66 itself - strong, weathered, and built to last.

Special thanks to Victoria VanDame, owner of Curious Toast Cafe for sharing Shorty’s story with us and putting in the work to bring such a unique and significant piece of New Mexico and Route 66 art to Downtown!