“Loon Sculpture in Twin Cities Emphasizes Link to Nature and Eco-Consciousness”
# “The Calling”: A Tribute to Minnesota’s Wilderness and Public Art
In 1961, Minnesota officially recognized the loon as its state bird, symbolizing the state’s natural splendor and wild landscapes. The loon, known for its haunting cries and distinctive black-and-white feathers, has enchanted both Minnesotans and visitors. When celebrated sculptor **Andy Scott** was tasked with creating a significant sculpture for Saint Paul, Minnesota, he embraced this emblem of the state’s natural legacy, culminating in a striking stainless steel sculpture titled *The Calling*.
While loons inhabit Minnesota’s lakes, they are foreign to Scott’s native Scotland and California, where he currently lives. Nevertheless, Scott perceived this endeavor as a chance to delve into the lore of the loon, drawing on its symbolic depth to produce a public piece that would evoke emotion and contemplation.
## An Exploration of Loon Lore
“When I was invited to take on this project, I aimed to design something that genuinely resonates with the people of Minnesota and embodies the essence of the land,” Scott revealed in a discussion with **My Modern Met**. Studying the subject deepened his understanding of the loon’s importance—not only as a representation of untouched wilderness but also as a metaphor for the human-nature connection. “I discovered that the loon’s haunting calls are often interpreted as a bridge between the physical realm and the supernatural, inspiring me further in my design process.”
*The Calling* transcends a simple portrayal of the bird; it transforms the loon into an abstraction that accentuates its majesty and enigma. Drawing inspiration from the sleek lines and magnificence of Art Deco, Scott infused this style to give the large sculpture a sense of timelessness and sophistication.
## The Design and Engineering Achievements of “The Calling”
Designing a grand loon as a public centerpiece presented distinct challenges. As with any public art project, Scott needed to harmonize aesthetic appeal with structural integrity to ensure the sculpture’s longevity and engagement. “It had to be visually pleasing but also structurally robust and appropriate for the setting,” Scott commented.
The artist is well-regarded for his use of stainless steel, a material he values for its adaptability and resilience in outdoor settings. The steel components of *The Calling* interact with light in unique ways under varying conditions, making the sculpture appear to shift and glimmer with the sun’s movement. “The way light reflects off and through the surface panels is what truly animates the piece,” Scott noted. The expertly crafted layers of steel produce elaborate shadows and enable the sculpture to evolve throughout the day.
However, the creation and installation of such a monumental artwork is a considerable challenge. Scott collaborated with a team of a dozen skilled welders and engineers to realize this ambitious vision. Comprised of nearly **sixty distinct sections**, the completed pieces were transported from Los Angeles to Saint Paul in an **imposing procession of twelve 55-foot semi-trailers**. “It was an extraordinary logistical achievement that demanded meticulous planning and coordination,” Scott remarked, underscoring the intricate details involved in public art initiatives.
## The Artistic and Symbolic Significance of “The Calling”
Beyond its direct homage to the loon, Scott infused the artwork with a broader significance captured by the title *The Calling*. “The name carries multiple meanings,” Scott explained, “from the bird’s unique call to a larger, metaphorical summons for the people of Saint Paul. It’s a call to action, a form of dialogue that reaches out and brings people together.” He envisioned the sculpture as a motivational gathering spot for the local community, prompting passersby to contemplate their relationship with nature and their everyday environment.
Another dimension of *The Calling* connects to the notions of aspiration and purpose. “To possess a calling in life signifies having a deeper goal or ambition, and I appreciated how that aligns with the aspirations of Saint Paul to revitalize and continually unite its residents.” Set in a prominent public location outside **Allianz Field**, the bustling soccer stadium of Saint Paul, the artwork serves as both a visual milestone and a reminder of the need to engage with nature, even amid urban surroundings.
## Cultivating Connection Through Public Art
Andy Scott’s vision for *The Calling* extends beyond merely placing a sculpture in the city. He aspires to cultivate a collective experience among art, nature, and the public within shared spaces. “I hope viewers will take a moment from their hectic day, glance up, and think, ‘Wow, how beautiful,’” Scott reflected. “I hope they spend time in its ever-evolving shadows and heights, appreciating the intricacy of its design.”
Scott is experienced with large-scale public artworks, yet he acknowledges the distinctive role they play in urban landscapes, where they can inspire, provoke thought, and enhance everyday experiences.