Art Curation at Sports Venues | Sports & The Arts

U.S. BANK STADIUM

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA

Sports & The Arts, in conjunction with the Minnesota Vikings and the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority, captured the essence of Minnesota and the Vikings history within the walls of U.S. Bank Stadium through visual storytelling. Curating the collection over a two-year period, Sports & the Arts combined original artworks, graphics and photography that coalesce into a rich dimensional experience. Nearly 400 original works of art, 250 pieces of photography, and two large-scale wall murals created by local artists and schools enhance the viewing enjoyment within this exciting new venue.

Over 100 artists contributed to the collection, culled from an unprecedented 1,200+ submissions to a call for local artists. Unique to this collection is the inclusion of four alumni Viking greats. A series of wildlife limited editions by Hall of Fame coach Bud Grant, a mixed media sculpture collection from Purple People Eater Carl Eller, and an intimate recreation by Viking Captain Jim Marshall of his talisman symbol created from a by-gone era.

Hallway with framed artwork on gray walls, light-colored wood floor, and recessed ceiling lights.

The Metronic Club at U.S. Bank Stadium houses over 35 pieces of art by local Minnesota artist Gary Welton.

Installed near the MSFA’s offices, this graphic illustrates the diversity of Minnesota and the Twin Cities and incorporates images of iconic landmarks and the people that work, play and live in Minnesota. Measuring an impressive 145’ in length, the dynamic design provides the viewer with the illusion of a three-dimensional installation. Sports & The Arts has experience working with joint city-funded projects and can work with both parties to provide continuity and collaboration throughout the project.

Portrait of a person in a purple suit, made of small purple shapes. It is hanging on a white wall by a door.

Purple Reign, created by Minnesota artist Nicholas Schleif, is a multidimensional visual biography of one of Minneapolis’ most famous sons, Prince Rogers Nelson. Created using acrylic paints on canvas, Nicholas’ artwork offers viewers a layered visual experience that encourages a deeper appreciation for the artwork through subliminal and hidden meanings.

Interior view of a Vikings-themed lounge. Features include dart boards, bar stools, patterned carpet, and metal railings.

Skjalborg was created by glass artist and metal forger James Brenner. Skjalborg, from old Norse means a, “protective wall formed by interlocking the shields of foot soldiers,” and is reminiscent of football’s first wall of protection — the defense. The centerpiece Viking “V” shield is illuminated and made from hand-sculpted glass and gold-leafed metal. The four traditional Viking shields are made of wood and forged steel.

Hallway with large murals of a crowd, a yellow directional sign, and concrete pillars.

Nick Bensch’s original fans triptych, Title, was recreated into a tension system installed high above the Main Concourse. This advantageous location creates sightlines from two levels.

A gray-walled room with a framed artwork of a Viking ship and a sculpture on a pedestal. Three pendant lights above.

Artist Lynn Hanson created a fifteen-foot-long Vikings ship floating across a foggy sea invoking a soft, ethereal feel. A hand-carved bronze Viking ship is shown on left. Each area of the building is curated with original works that coalesce with their surroundings in content, style and framing. Together, these elements work to expand and complement the existing aesthetic.