Community Collaboration: Light of Learning
The "Light of Learning", a sculpture of metal, light and shadow, created by local artist Wil Natzel, and locally crafted in Steele County, was installed in the lobby of the Owatonna Public Library, welcoming about 19,000 community members every month. As traditional beacons guide ships and airplanes, the elevated library beacon will guide the community to its place of learning and literature.
The sculpture will provide literal and physical light, but will also provide metaphorical light, calling the community to search for the light of insight, inspiration and poetry.
50 participated
Evaluation will be conducted by an outside (contracted) evaluator.
1. Evaluator interview with artist and Owatonna Arts Center staff.
2. Staff at the Owatonna Public Library noted questions and comments about the sculpture.
3. The evaluator conducted a focus group.
4. Visitors interviewed completed a survey.
5. The survey instrument is included in the evaluation document.
The sheer size of the Light of Learning is impressive, as is the lights that change colors every 24 seconds. When a patron ascends the Library stairs, it is the first thing noticed.
It is visible from outside the Library building. It is an attraction to the library and the community. People are excited about it and love something new and innovative. They are proud to be part of a community that has this artistic piece at the library.
The Light of Learning will be lighted 24 hours per day. This provides a beautiful stream of color in the evening hours when driving past the Library. The beacon of light guides us to a place of learning and literature.
Light helps us see. We respond positively to light. We evolved this way. Light means hope. We seek the light everyday no matter how dark that day may be. Light is purity and warmth.
Members of the Library Board, Library Foundation Board, Library Staff and members of the public, made positive comments.
SELCO, Will Natzel, Owatonna Public Library, Owatonna Public Library Foundation