Sunflowers

Dale Lewis & Gerie Thelen, 7-foot sculpture 

Who would imagine one man’s fascination with the texture of nails would morph into a sunflower sculpture? After creating an interesting pattern by welding nails on a recycled metal platter, the center of a sunflower emerged. Dale then added Gerie Thelen’s fused glass petals to surround the flower’s centers.

Located near the Red Wing Public Library, 225 East Avenue

A Gift to the City from a generous donor

About the Artists:

DALE LEWIS
After leaving my career as an electrical technician and machinist, I had time to explore three dimensional art. I began making traditional mosaic sculptures and enjoyed the results. However, they are not well-suited for permanent installation outdoors and cannot withstand the freeze/thaw of our harsh Minnesota winters. So, in 2010 I bought a welder and started experimenting, making metal sculptures.

 I discovered that metal provides greater flexibility and working with scrap offers a wide variety of materials that often influence the design of my work. Not only can my pieces be permanently installed outdoors, but I love turning scrap into art. I look at things differently now, especially at junk yards and see art everywhere!

My goal is to make each of my pieces entertaining, fun and recognizable as having been crafted with salvaged materials. I’ve never felt that art has to be profound or deep to have an impact. So, while it is important for the viewer to “get” the recycling message, it shouldn’t necessarily override the simplicity of the main purpose which is to make people smile! My hobby has become a full-time obsession. There’s no turning back now, this is what I want to do, when I grow up!

GERIE THELEN
Gerie is a fused glass artist from Northfield, MN.