The Whimsical World of minneapolis’ Grotesques: A Hidden Gem in City Hall
Minneapolis is a city of statues, but not all of them are created equal. while many sculptures around the city exude seriousness—like the statuary on the Capitol dome or the allegorical bas-reliefs at the University of Minnesota’s Burton Hall—there’s one exception: the 41 grotesques of City Hall. these mischievous carvings, hidden in plain sight, offer a playful contrast to the otherwise solemn public art scene.
A Glimpse into the Grotesques
Nestled within the carved foliage above the elevator banks of City Hall, the 41 grotesques are a collection of impish sprites and crotchety characters. Some appear lost in thought, while others seem consumed by sudden suspicion. One looks like he’s had a long day and wishes you’d get to the point, while another seems startled by unexpected news. These whimsical figures, carved by sculptor Andrew Gewond, are not just decorative—they’re a testament to the humor and personality of their creator.According to the City Hall’s website, the grotesques are a unique feature of the building, though not entirely one-of-a-kind. The Masonic Temple, now the Hennepin Center for the Arts, also boasts similar carvings, albeit with less personality. Both structures were completed in the late 1880s, during the height of the Richardsonian Romanesque architectural style.
The Richardsonian Romanesque revival
The Richardsonian Romanesque style, inspired by European structures from the 11th to 13th centuries, was a bold choice for a young city like Minneapolis. It represented modernity, stability, and strength—qualities the city sought to embody just 30 years after becoming a state. This architectural style, characterized by its use of old motifs and materials, brought a sense of gravitas to the city’s streetscape.
But why grotesques instead of gargoyles? The answer lies in their purpose. gargoyles, originating as waterspouts, served a functional role in architecture. grotesques, on the othre hand, were purely decorative—and often amusing. Sculptors would sometimes carve particularly cheeky grotesques high up, out of the commoner’s view, perhaps to surprise a repairman decades later.
A Reflection of Humanity
The grotesques of City Hall are more than just stone carvings; they’re a mirror of human emotion. From delight to contempt, surprise to weariness, these figures capture the full spectrum of moods a Minnesotan might experience. As the article notes, “The grotesques are what we know we realy are: delighted, contemptuous, surprised, weary, romantic, or just plain normal.”
In contrast, the classical styles that followed the Richardsonian Romanesque era favored stone-faced mythical figures embodying noble traits.While these sculptures represent what we aspire to be, the grotesques remind us of who we truly are.
A Must-See for Visitors
If you’re downtown, the grotesques are worth a visit. Take a moment to consider what these stone faces have witnessed over the years. Perhaps they’ve seen the parade of dutiful officers waiting for the elevator to carry them to their solemn tasks. Or maybe they’ve simply enjoyed the quiet amusement of watching the world go by.
| Key Facts About the Grotesques |
|————————————|
| Location | Minneapolis City Hall |
| Number of Grotesques | 41 |
| Sculptor | Andrew Gewond |
| Architectural style | Richardsonian Romanesque |
| Unique Feature | Playful,expressive carvings |
So,the next time you’re in minneapolis,make your way to City Hall. Look up, and you’ll find a hidden world of whimsy and wit—a reminder that even in the most serious of places, there’s always room for a little fun.
Explore more about Minneapolis’ architectural gems here.
