Officials claim that next summer, a massive sculpture of a loon will be erected to the proposed park space near Allianz Field.
On Friday, Snelling Midway Redevelopment and Minnesota United made the sculpture’s announcement public.
The artwork, which was commissioned by the McGuire Family Foundation, is scheduled to be put once the public park located at the intersection of Snelling Avenue and University Avenue is completed.
“The role that art will play in the United Village development has been part of its planning from the very beginning,” Dr. Bill McGuire, the former UnitedHealth Group CEO and current Minnesota United owner, said. “We feel strongly that art can be an important part of communities and should be accessible, have wide appeal, and be an integral part of the area. When we came across Andy’s work, discussed his vision and approach with him and saw his sketch ideas, it was obvious that this work would be an extraordinary addition to the community. The appropriate site for it was clearly the most prominent and visible location possible where it could be optimally viewed by and interact with the people in the community, Minnesotans from throughout the state, and visitors from everywhere.”
The sculpture, which is being made by well-known Scottish artist Andy Scott, who has produced several internationally recognized art installations, such as The Kelpies, will measure approximately 33 feet in height and 88 feet in width and will show a loon taking flight.
“When I was first introduced to the project and the opportunity, our study of the possibilities made it quickly apparent that there was one truly compelling possible route to take – and that was with a representation of the Loon,” Scott said in a statement. “It’s so symbolic of Minnesota, the natural environment that has helped define it, and the people who have called it home throughout its history. The Loon has a unique and enduring place in the hearts of all Minnesotans and is a cause for such great civic pride.”
The architectural firm Populous, who also developed Allianz Field, created the park in which it will be located. According to officials, the United Village development will also have a distinctive hotel, two pavilion restaurants, a mixed-use building, a special play space for kids of all abilities, and additional public art.