Historic Cook County is excited to announce a date for its Public Art Project Unveiling and corresponding Artist Talk with Maeve Gathje. Join us on Saturday, September 28th at 4 pm at the Johnson Heritage Post Art Gallery (115 W Wisconsin St, Grand Marais, MN) to be among the first to see this incredible work of art.
Historic Cook County has been working with Gathje since November 2023 to bring this project to life, and we are delighted to be celebrating her hard work. The Public Art, titled Biota Borealis, consists of three sand-blasted Minnesota granite stones displaying scenes of Northern Minnesota beauty. Some inspiration for the piece came from a public survey, where community members provided feedback on topics, things, and ideas that define the area. Gathje also found inspiration in selecting the rocks herself and drawing from her time spent in the area.
The Celebration will begin with an Artist’s Talk, where Gathje will share photos and stories about her process of designing and working with the stones. Following a brief Q&A session, we will transition outside for the Grand Unveiling.
This project was made possible through the generous support from the Lloyd K. Johnson Foundation.
Minnesota artist
Maeve Gathje
A 60" hole was dug in front of the Johnson Heritage Post which will eventually be filled with cement - all to create a footing that will support a sculpture as part of the Public Art Project.