I like parks. I like public art. So I really like spaces that combine both in unique ways. Madison Park and Bicycle Playground in north Fargo epitomizes that combination perfectly.
My son and his cousins can (and frequently do) spend all day here. The marquee attractions are a bicycle track that feels a little bit like an obstacle course and a beginner skate park.
You'll also find a basketball court, a playground and a grill and picnic tables. Kids can play in the pool and splash pad in the summer and the outdoor skating and hockey rink in the winter.
There's very cool public art hiding in plain sight at Madison Park and Bicycle Playground. Artist Magda Szeitz and art teacher Megan Johnson worked with over 120 Madison Elementary School students to create a large mural from recycled stained glass.
There's also a cool lizard-shaped lounging area along the skate park. It's by ceramicist Brad Bachmeier, who also just happens to be one of a handful of brick sculptors in the country. He and the other artists consulted with local families to make sure the final product reflected the cultures that make up both the neighborhood and the school.
While researching this story, I learned that the adult artists who worked on this project are all graduates of my alma mater, Minnesota State University Moorhead. (Go Dragons!) I recommend reading more about the collaborators and the project itself, which is a joint effort between the Fargo Park District, Fargo Public Schools and The Legacy Children's Foundation.
What about you?
What's your favorite piece of functional art?
What you do love about Madison Park and Bicycle Playground?
Which symbols and designs would represent your neighborhood or school?
What kind of art and park collaborations would you most like to see?
Public art coverage is made possible in part by a grant from The Arts Partnership.
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