The Vision
The members of the 2023-2024 Leadership Alexandria class have a bold vision for the Alexandria community as a place where collaboration and creativity thrive. Their community development project showcases sculptures representative of the area’s location and the artistic talents of its people.
The twenty-four members of the class, area professionals selected and hosted by the Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Tara Bitzan, committed to this year-long project to celebrate artistic creativity as central to the quality of life here. Their bold vision will be realized this summer.
Kasey Morris, Director of Development at Habitat for Humanity and a member of the leadership class, developed the sculpture concept in consultation with other towns where community art projects exist. Carrie Johnston, President of Detroit Lakes Regional Chamber of Commerce, provided valuable mentorship and introduced Kasey to renowned Minnesota artist Hans Gilsdorf, who designed the sculptures that will be placed around Alexandria.
The Art
Symbolic representations of outboard motors, the twenty sculptures will serve as a “blank canvas” for local artists to showcase their creativity. The Leadership Alexandria team partnered with Alexandria Art Guild, a founding member of The Arts Collaborative. Guild artists
Bill and Mimi Seykora, provided valuable direction for the process and promoted the project to area artists.
Their efforts attracted a talented group of local artists, including Anna Lassonde, Averie Moundson, Bill Seykora, Catherine Raef-Dunniga, Craig Palm, Fred Kollmann, Leanne Larson, Kara Schumann, Linda Gaugert, Melissa Werpy, Phyllis Joos, Shannon LaBree, Easton Krause, and Mary Jo Wentz.
Funding
Recognizing the importance of nurturing the creative spirit of Alexandria’s next generation, members of the class reached into the schools to involve teachers and students.
Believing in the value of collaboration, they also contacted area business for in-kind donations of supplies and materials. Morris praises classmate Ryan Blakesley, Business Banker at Viking Bank, for his pivotal role in securing in-kind donations.
Fundraising for the project enlists tiers of sponsors whose financial contributions will underwrite costs of creation, installation, and maintenance of the sculptures. Funds raised from sponsorships and donations will not only cover the cost of the project, but also serve as a launchpad for future community art initiatives spearheaded by the Alexandria Art Guild.
Impact
Speaking on behalf of her classmates, Kasey stresses that the intentionality of the project is as important as the sculptures themselves: “This project represents more than just beautiful artwork; it’s a catalyst for artistic growth within our community. Imagine Alexandria’s streets adorned with these sculptures,” she said. “Each one a unique reflection of our city’s soul and the boundless talent of its residents.”
The Arts Collaborative is proud to celebrate the community sculpture project as a prime example of the many ways the arts foster community engagement, increase community pride, and spur creativity among people of all ages.