Visual Art Outdoors Activities
Visit Eau Claire Celebrates 15 Years of Local Sculpture Tour
experience the latest iteration of this self-guided tour at your leisure, free of charge
Since its launch in 2011, the Eau Claire Sculpture Tour has become a vibrant feature of the area, engaging both residents and out-of-town visitors alike – and has grown into the largest sculpture tour of its kind in the nation. With its inception as a non-profit organization over a decade ago, the tour's sculptures have invited interaction and celebrated the arts throughout the city.
“Our mission is to enhance the quality of life in Eau Claire, by using free public art to promote tourism, foster creativity, drive economic development, and inspire community pride and engagement,” Julie Pangallo, public arts manager for Visit Eau Claire, said. “We try to look for a variety of materials and subject matter and styles, so that people are exposed to different kinds of art.”
As the Sculpture Tour celebrates 15 years of art this year, its legacy includes the People's Choice Award — voted on by residents and other folks who have enjoyed the tour each year.
Awarded first in 2011 to Louise Peterson for their sculpture “High Five Dog,” this playful piece exemplifies the tour’s adoration from people of all ages. Try strolling by the high-fiving dog in Phoenix Park (330 Riverfront Terrace, Eau Claire) without joyfully pressing your hand against its paw — it’s practically im(paw)sible!
Hundreds of high-quality art pieces have rotated throughout the Chippewa Valley since the group's inception, with the crowd favorites becoming permanent fixtures across the city. This year, 35 new sculptures have been brought into the rotation of existing installations, with a few more yet to come this summer, Pangallo said.
The Sculpture Tour has presented artwork by renowned artists — both regional and national — and provides free enjoyment for everyone, regardless of age or ability, she said. With no specific start or end point, visitors can learn more about each sculpture at their own pace.
The Sculpture Tour welcomed over 30 participating artists to this year's installation day on Thursday, May 15 — followed by an annual Artists’ Reception in the evening to celebrate award recipients from 2024’s People’s Choice Award, including Best of Show: Bronze, and Best of Show: Other Materials.
Voting for the 2025 People's Choice Award is now open, along with an interactive map showcasing this free art installation.
Find everything you need to peruse the Eau Claire Sculpture Tour through the Visit Eau Claire website: visiteauclaire.com/sculpture-tour.
