Vibrant murals, interesting sculptures and hands-on classes – art is everywhere in Brookings. Whether taking a stroll downtown or appreciating the works around town, visitors have an abundance of ways to experience the art in this community.
Along with sculptures, visitors can explore the colorful canvases throughout Downtown Brookings. The city has made outdoor artwork a priority over the last few years, adding more murals each summer.
“Art makes the visual aesthetic of the community really exciting and inviting. But it also gives people a new thing to do or to try as an activity with their friends,” says Rachel Funk, director of the Brookings Arts Council.
Many sculptures are scattered throughout Brookings. Some include The Guardian, a tribute to a police officer and a Special Olympics athlete with a flame of hope found outside Brookings Public Safety Center, as well as The Professor, an ode to the Brookings community at the corner of Main Avenue and Fourth Street. A walk around SDSU’s campus leads guests to statues of Weary Wil and Dirty Lil north of the Student Union.
If visitors have time to spare, the Brookings Arts Council offers monthly gallery shows to enjoy. Located at 524 Fourth St. near the Children’s Museum of South Dakota, the BAC also provides various classes up to three times a week. These include painting, drawing, ceramics, pottery and fiber arts as well as paint-and-sip events.
Brookings has an abundant and easy-to-find variety of art dispersed throughout town. Visitors could spend a day or more exploring all Brookings has to offer.
*This story has been written in collaboration with South Dakota State University‘s Public Relations class for our 2024 Visitor Guide.*
