Above: first concept drawing

I’ve had the joy of beginning a new public art adventure in Mountain Lake, Minnesota, designing a custom art bench that will live outside the Mountain Lake Public Library.

Like many of my projects, this one started with pencils and paper. I met with Library Director Daniel Mick to explore ideas, materials, and site possibilities. Daniel brings a genuine enthusiasm for community enrichment, and his input helped shape the initial concept drawings, organic curves, playful detail, and a design that invites people to sit, stay, and read a book.

From the start, this project has been about more than just a place to sit, it’s about creating a gathering space, a quiet moment, a memorial to people who help shape the community of the Mountain Lake.

In these early stages, Daniel has been reaching out to local organizations and residents to gather support and invite input. Conversations at the library, casual chats at community events, and model previews have all been part of building excitement for what’s to come. It’s already clear: Mountain Lake is ready for this bench to become part of its story.

As we move into the next phase, refining the design and preparing for fabrication. I’ll be sharing updates here. Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes glimpses of the process!