Beautification and Public Art Committee Packet 05-20-2024

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To whom it may concern, On behalf of the City of Elk River Public Art Subcommittee, we are writing to you today to ask for your participation in an exciting new endeavor coming to Elk River! The City of Elk River has commissioned Milligan Studios of St. Paul to design, create, and install a public art sculpture which showcases the city’s rich history in leading economic transportation efforts both through the highway system and riverway system. Milligan Studios, an experienced and esteemed sculpture collaborative, has designed and created specifically for Elk River, a sculpture called, “Slipstream.” It will be located at the eastern entrance to downtown Elk River, visible from Highway 10/Main Street/Parrish Ave, and will serve as an invitation to travelers and locals alike to learn how the development and use of several transportation systems has shaped the economic vitality of the town. Elk River’s own Charles M. Babcock was the first commissioner of the Minnesota Highway Department in 1917. His leadership and forethought laid the foundation for the state’s current highway and transportation system. The sculpture, purposely and thoughtfully located near the Mississippi River, also pays homage to the history the river played in establishing early settlements and commerce of the region. The significance of the sculpture doesn’t stop there. We are working with several community organizations including the Elk River Chamber of Commerce, the Elk River Great River Regional Library, ISD 728 schools, Energy City Commission, and Granite Shores Apartments. In addition, we plan to invite high school students and area residents to learn some aspects of metal casting with our artists and to join in a variety of public opportunities that will be conducted under COVID safety protocols. To complete the funding for this community public art initiative, we are looking for partners like you who see the value in the story and are able to financially donate to the project. In return for your $500- $1,000 contribution, you would receive acknowledgement in all publicity and any printed materials. The majority of funding for the project has been secured through the City of Elk River Economic Development Authority as well as a grant from the Central Minnesota Arts Board. But we need your help to contribute to this small funding gap to bring the project to fruition. Can we count on you to help tell this piece of Elk River’s story? As a donor you will be recognized on the EDA website, in social media posts and in other promotional materials. Page 4 of 10