Art in Ramsey County Parks

Ramsey County works with a diverse group of professional artists to enliven parks with works of art. See current and archived works of art, learn about the artist, and visit new pieces of art.  

Artists in Residence

Dakota artists Marlena Myles and Tara Perron sitting together on blue chairs smiling towards the camera.
Marlena Myles, left and Tara Perron, right

Marlena Myles and Tara Perron (Tanaǧidaŋ To Wiŋ) are Dakota creatives from Saint Paul, Minnesota, dedicated to preserving and sharing their cultural heritage through their work. The artists are part of the Minnesota Parks Artist-in-Residence program funded through Legacy Amendment Parks & Trails funds. The team plans to hold classes and workshops, events and produce works of art in the park.  

Artists Statement

As Dakota people, we honor our Grandmother Earth and strive to inspire others to share this reverence for the natural world. Before the arrival of Europeans, our ancestors did not have a written language, instead we embedded our worldview in our relationship with the land. The geography of Minnesota still holds layers of Dakota language within our place names, plant knowledge, animal knowledge, and spiritual connections with the land. 

 

“Signs of Belonging” Sign Kiosk Art 

In 2021, Ramsey County and the Metropolitan Council teamed up with five local artists -- Andrés Guzmán, CRICE, Marlena Myles, Xee Reiter and Witt Siasoco -- to develop five unique designs to welcome all to county and regional parks. 

A goal of the Ramsey County 21st Century Parks Vision, new park and trail signage was developed to give artists of color a prominent voice in the parks. Each artist brought their unique perspective and identity to their design based on the prompt: “what would make you feel welcome and a sense of belonging in the park?” 

Newly designed park-use kiosks featuring new maps and artwork are featured at all parks in the system. Each sign brings a unique and vibrant lens to the traditional park sign.  

This project was awarded an Innovation in Equity Award by the National Recreation & Parks Association.  

“Signs of Belonging” Artists

Mural, Rose & Picnic Shelter at McCarrons 

Artist: Shakun Maheshwari
Location: McCarrons County Park 

Three art pieces in McCarrons County Park – the rose sculpture, mosaic and picnic shelter pillars – are designed by Shakun Maheshwara and created with community. These pieces were installed with collaboration from Arts Roseville and the Rice & Larpenteur Alliance. 

Artist Shakun Maheshwari smiling next to her yellow, orange, and red colored rose sculpture at the park.Artist Shakun Maheshwari smiling next to her colorful mosaic artwork at the picnic shelter pillars at McCarrons County Park.

 

Archived Projects