In the early 2000s, Fergus Falls developed a reputation as a regional arts center. At the same time, city officials started building a future for retail and tourism along the river and the central part of downtown. In response to these progressive movements, twelve artists gathered at Fergus Brewing near the Otter Tail river on a cold January day in 2019.

Ideas poured out of the creative minds and warmed their spirits as they discussed how public art near the river can help show the vitality of their community. Now, five years later, one more of those ideas is being fulfilled. Early in 2024 additional community leaders joined the artists and shaped the plan and advocated for financial support of the Fergus Falls Sculpture Walk.

The City of Fergus Falls Public Arts Commission successfully applied for and received private funding for the first three years from local foundations. These funders share a vision for public art as an economic driver and an interest in people encountering art in their everyday life, while shopping on Lincoln Ave., visiting the farmers market, or checking out the splash pad near the river. Exhibiting artists will receive a stipend and the chance to sell their sculptures.

In the summer of 2025 the inaugural tour of six sculptures will be exhibited on Lincoln Ave between Union and Cascade avenues for all the world to enjoy. Come join the fun. Visit Fergus Falls.

2025 is the first year of the Fergus Falls Sculpture Walk. The Sculpture Walk is located in downtown Fergus Falls. Fergus Falls’ beautiful historic downtown is thriving with local businesses, art organizations, historical theatre and restaurants. It will display six rotating sculptures that will be added in late spring of 2025. In addition to these temporary installed sculptures, the Fergus Falls Sculpture Walk features numerous public art pieces that are part of Fergus Falls' permanent collection, offering a rich and diverse experience for art enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a variety of artistic styles and expressions while exploring the city’s vibrant art scene and flowing river flourishing in the heart of Fergus Falls.

The Fergus Falls Sculpture Walk meanders through downtown, passing by local businesses, galleries, and the historic theater, leading visitors toward the scenic Otter Tail River and Riverfront Splash Pad. The path also leads to the farmers market at Spies Park on Wednesdays and Saturdays during the market season. It’s truly a work of engineering artistry and family- friendly activities.

In late spring 2025, six new, temporary pieces will be located in select locations downtown. The selected sculptures are chosen by the Fergus Falls Public Arts Commission. They are for sale by the artists.

For inquiries, please contact Sculpture Walk manager Naomi Schliesman at infosculpturewalk@fergusfalls.gov or call 320-288-5369.

The Fergus Falls Public Art Commission will select artwork based on conceptual strength, originality, and workmanship. Sculptures will be exhibited in downtown Fergus Falls from May 2025-April 2026. The selected artists will receive a $1,500.00 honorarium to display their work. Submission limit of three per artist; no cost to enter. 

Special thanks for supporting and funding this year’s 2025 Sculpture Art Walk: Frank Veden Charitable Trust and Lake Region Arts Council.