Students get exclusive first look at the new Alumni Center sculpture

A First Look: From Concept to Creation - MSUM's New Alumni Center Sculpture

 Last Friday, eight MSUM students stepped inside Davis Designs, a Fargo-based metal fabrication studio, for an exclusive look at a project transforming from a 2D concept into an iconic, three-dimensional sculpture. This striking new piece, created by artist Brock Davis, will soon be installed on the west side of the newly completed Christianson Alumni Center, symbolizing MSUM pride, legacy, and strength.

The trip was made possible through Brad Bachmeier, MSUM School of Art Chair and Art Education Program Director, who played a critical role in making this new public art piece a reality. Bachmeier, a nationally recognized artist and advocate for public art, helped facilitate the sculpture's development and organized this unique learning experience for students.

 From Sketch to Sculpture: The Process Behind the Art

The tour allowed students to follow the sculpture's journey-from early sketches and technical drawings to 3D modeling and full-scale fabrication. Davis walked students through the challenges of bringing this ambitious design to life, detailing the problem-solving and engineering that went into its construction.

Some of the key complexities of the project included: Designing for Transport & Finishing:

 - Creating strategic access points allows the sculpture to be safely transported, painted, and finished before installation.

 - Internal Engineering for a Flame Feature: The piece incorporates hidden internal plumbing to support a planned flame element, adding motion and symbolism to the final work. 

 - Seamless Structural Integration: The sculpture was ensured to be securely anchored to its concrete base while keeping attachment points invisible to maintain its aesthetic integrity. 

Davis shared insights into his creative and technical approach, demonstrating how precision cutting, welding, and finishing techniques shape large-scale public art. The students were the first on campus to witness the nearly completed work before it undergoes final painting and finishing touches ahead of its spring installation.

A Lasting Tribute to MSUM

Beyond its artistic presence, the sculpture embodies themes of guardianship, stewardship, and sophistication, reinforcing the deep connection between MSUM and its alumni. Once installed, it will stand as a bold, lasting tribute to the university's mission and the impact of its alumni and donors.

 Brad Bachmeier, Chair of the School of Art, expressed his excitement for the sculpture's completion:

 "This project has been an incredible journey from concept to creation, and I think the final result will be well worth the wait. The sculpture will provide an iconic new focal point for the Alumni Center that reflects the pride, legacy, and strength of MSUM. It's exciting to see such a dynamic piece take shape, and I'm thrilled for our students and campus community to experience it firsthand."

 Thank you to Professor Brad Bachmeier for his dedication to this project and for making this trip possible for our students. Bachmeier, a renowned ceramicist and public artist, has been instrumental in advancing public art throughout the region. His work is housed in prestigious collections, including the North Dakota Governor's Mansion, Microsoft Fargo Campus, the Plains Art Museum, and even First Lady Michelle Obama's office in the White House. He serves as Program Director and Professor of Art Education, Chair of the School of Art, and Art Therapy Program Coordinator at MSUM, as well as a City of Fargo Arts & Culture Commissioner and member of the Art Educators of MN Board of Directors.

 As the countdown to installation begins, stay tuned for updates on the official unveiling-including the final name of this remarkable addition to campus!