Aaron Dysart: Regrowth
Commissioned by Green Minneapolis and Mississippi Watershed Management Organization
Jan 25-Feb 5
Surly Brewing and Peavey Plaza
Free, open to the public
Minneapolis-based artist Aaron Dysart creates work inspired by the intersection of human existence and wilderness. His newest installation, Regrowth, honors the process of loss. Immerse yourself in this Green Minneapolis and MWMO-commissioned work throughout The Great Northern Jan 25–Feb 5, first at Surly Brewing for Chill Out, and then at Peavey Plaza in downtown Minneapolis for the remainder of the festival.
Artist statement: “I have long been drawn to the ability of cut or broken trees to sprout new growth from the stump, as it feels so hopeful. The tragic loss is still present as we can imagine the tree's presence on what only remains a stump, and if this surface is highlighted, we are allowed to see the years of its existence through its growth rings. Holding this loss instead of hiding it, the tree continues as it is still connected to its roots. The sprouts reach out to the sun to create a better future. By using an internally lit animated inflatable sprout, Regrowth draws attention to the work that needs to happen while honoring past losses.”
Aaron Dysart is a sculptor fascinated with the intersection of human existence and wilderness. Often seen as adversarial or framed in terms of stewardship, implied distinctions in this intersection prove to be as permeable and fluid as they are compelling. This fascination is filtered through a study of objects and materials, interventions, and spectacle, and is always driven by the desire to gain understanding as a small part of an all-engulfing system. He has shown nationally and partnered with organizations including the National Park Service, Army Corp of Engineers, Mississippi Park Connection, and Woodwell Climate Research Center. His work has been in publications such as Art in America, Hyperallergic, and Berlin Art Link, and he has received grants from the Minnesota State Arts Board, Forecast Public Art, and the Knight Foundation among others. Aaron is currently Saint Paul’s Artist in Residence through Public Art Saint Paul and operates his studio practice in Minneapolis.
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