Start Seeing Public Art

By Sarah Ratermann Beahan

           

Giraffe Sculpture

It finally happened. The sun came out, the mercury is heading skyward and everyone and their brother made a beeline for the outdoors. Viewing art may seem like a cold weather activity, reserved for days when it's too cold to feel your fingers.

 

And yet there is plenty of art to be seen out-of-doors in the Northeast Minneapolis Arts District as well. The Arts District is lucky to be a nucleus of public art. Half the fun is finding it. Here are a few favorites to check out while enjoying the sunshine.

 

Sculpture is a medium that has often been utilized in public spaces as well as outdoors. Well-respected artist and sculptor Zoran Mojsilov's outdoor studio and storage space can be found tucked behind the Grain Belt Bottling House and is a great example of public art in progress. Directly across the street, the Keg House Art Building is emblazoned with giant red letters reminding us to recognize Happiness. Head a dozen blocks east and check out the satellite location of Franconia Sculpture Park, nestled behind the Casket Arts Building, cleverly called Franconia in the City. It's a hidden world of colorful sculptures peeking out of an otherwise unassuming parking lot.

 

Owl and Hawk

Murals are equally prevalent in the Arts District. Take a stroll down 13th avenue between 2nd and 5th Sts. NE and there's one on nearly every wall. Depictions of birds and horses will sneak up on you at every turn. But look further-the utility boxes are painted and planters are mosaics. Art is everywhere you turn.

 

Round Sculpture

Some of the most fun pieces to stumble upon are those in the private lawns around Northeast. These pieces feel like delightful gems-the giraffe on the lawn of the house on 5th St. NE near Lowry, or the orb made of trashcan lids in the driveway off 13th. How about the curlicue sculpture resting comfortably on the front lawn of the residence at 3rd Avenue at 2nd Street NE? These are reminders that not only are we surrounded by those who create art, but those who appreciate it.

 

This is the time of year to find a new dog-walking route, or shake up your bike commute and keep your eyes peeled for the public art all around. What's your favorite? Share your finds with us on our Northeast Minneapolis Arts District Facebook page and tag your photos #NEMinneapolisArtsDistrictPublicArt.