Whimsical, entertaining and provocative can easily describe the artwork at this outdoor gallery that provides new meaning and life to sculptures.
The John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park in Des Moines, Iowa, is a constantly changing art exhibition even though its sculptures are static. This happens because time of day and weather endlessly provide new backdrops and lighting for the pieces, allowing you to become an artist as you practice your photography skills. Walk through the open 4-acre (2-hectare) park and enjoy this “world-class showcase for the art of our time” as mentioned on the information panel at the entrance.
Admire the creations of 22 international artists who located their work in the park, which opened in 2009. The placement of sculptures on small hills, in valleys or among tall grasses with an urban backdrop is spellbinding and thought-provoking.
With its location near the city’s downtown area, the park creates a remarkable entrance to the community’s cultural center with its dramatic statement of 28 original art pieces.
Enjoy works such as rock faces, the alphabet person Nomade, the white tree air gets into everything even nothing, a tree spider, snowmen, a white ghost, a gymnast, the Ancient Forest wooden horse and many more sculpted in fiberglass, metal, stone and plastic.
Have a family picnic among the sculptures. Read about the art using a Smartphone to scan the code located next to each piece. Smoking is prohibited and alcoholic beverages are normally not permitted. Walk all around the three-dimensional pieces, but do not touch or climb on them.
The park is named after John Pappajohn, an Iowan entrepreneur and philanthropist, and his wife Mary who are both keen supporters of the arts.
Admission is free and the park is open to the public every day from sunrise to midnight, with street parking available.
Tours of the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park are given at certain times of the year and must be arranged in advance through the Des Moines Art Center. Visit the art center, which adjoins the sculpture park.
