Client: City of Bloomington

Overview

Blooming Ribbon is inspired by wildlife and folklore. In the Hmong culture a traditional ribbon-like sash is worn to keep us safe and grounded to the Earth. This ribbon will keep Bloomington grounded, tying the community to the importance nature plays in our life and that we should be conscious of giving back what we have taken. As the seasons change Blooming Ribbon will stay vibrant throughout the year. It’s an echoing theme to remind the neighborhood that when the community stays united, the community will stay vibrant. Sunlight cascades shadows into the landscape adding further dimension to the space.

Located in Bloomington Central Station Park, facing the METRO Blue Line light rail and Bloomington Central Station. Across the street from Fiddlehead Coffee Shop, near Hyatt Regency Bloomington – Minneapolis, HealthPartners corporate headquarters, and multiple residences.

Blooming Ribbon is an eight (8) foot fabricated structure, made from plasma cut steel metal. The artist hand painted colorful patterns onto the steel metal and coated it with a clear UV coating.

Goals

This artwork was part of our Creative Spark program where we requested proposals for creative ideas to activate public spaces in Bloomington's South Loop District. Sculptures selected were intended to bring beauty, delight, interest, and a sense of whimsy to the area and will be enjoyed by South Loop residents, workers, and visitors. The goal of the program was to select sculptures that are engaging, create interest and a more pedestrian-centric environment. They also help drive economic and development advancements by making the area more attractive, welcoming, and dynamic.

Process

The Creative Spark program was developed by Bloomington's Creative Placemaking Commission, a volunteer group of stakeholders who advise the City on creative placemaking initiatives. The call for art was open to artists ages 18 and older from Minnesota. Sculptures could be created for this call, or could be existing. Artists were asked to submit an artist statement, design concept, and requested budget.

All submissions were evaluated, ranked, and selected by a review panel. The panel included residents of the neighborhood, business representatives, artists, and Creative Placemaking Commissioners. Four sculptures were selected. The City’s Creative Placemaking Director then worked with the artists to implement projects.