Three Edina elementary students selected to display artwork on Edina Promenade

Three new pieces of public art – all designed by elementary school students – were installed on the Edina Promenade this month. Last spring Edina elementary students were introduced to public art through a grant from the Edina Education Fund and the City’s Arts & Culture Commission. Students had the chance to submit a proposal by crafting “maquettes,” which were smaller versions of sculptures they would like to see created. The miniature sculptures had to represent the theme “I am.”

Judges narrowed 130 submissions to nine favorites and reached out to the artists to let them choose which to create. Over the summer, the winners worked with the artists to create full sized sculptures. All three artworks can be found on the Edina Promenade south of 70th St.

Highlands Elementary student Ayana Griswold designed “A Reflection of Me,” a small bronze figure with a reflective face meant to be a mirror to those who walk up to it. “I thought the sculpture should represent everyone, not just one person,” said Griswold in her artist statement. She built the sculpture with Nick Legeros.

Concord Elementary student, Mac Anderson designed “The I in Edina,” which features oversized green building blocks that create the letters E, D, N, A. Visitors who stand in the center become the “I” in Edina. Anderson built the sculpture with Charles Morrill.

Normandale Elementary student, Sylvia van Norman designed “Rainbow Bridge,” a walk-thru covered bridge with its sides and top made of translucent panels filled with multiple colors. Van Norman built the sculpture with Morrill.