If you’ve walked through Viking Ship Park recently, you may have noticed some unusual woodland creatures inhabiting the forest.
Bun-Bun the rabbit – along with Georgie the hummingbird and Buddyfly the butterfly – are part of the Forest Friends art project created by local artist Patrice Delaney for the City of Moorhead’s 2022 Call for Activation. This project was developed to encourage activation along the riverfront or in downtown Moorhead.
The “Forest Friends” are built from urban wood waste, natural materials, wire, and found objects, along with some screws, nails, and glue to keep them together. Patrice’s father, Scott Delaney, assisted with the installation of these beautiful sculptures and her sister, Roni Delaney, photographed the installation.
“I usually consider myself a botanical illustrator and painter, but now I can say I am a sculptor, too,” said Delaney. “I wanted to create public art that would surprise people on the trails in Moorhead and encourage art lovers to explore the natural areas near the Red River. The riparian ecosystem is at the center of our community, and I want to encourage people to go there, look closely, and enjoy the environment for a moment or two.”
So the next time you are walking near the Hjemkomst Center, take a closer look around. A Forest Friend might just be looking back at you!
