Fridley Public Art Program Takes a Leap Forward

Published on December 04, 2025

Over the past several years, a foundation was laid to build a public art program in Fridley. An anonymous donation of $100,000 for public art started the effort and two key groups were formed to guide the fundraising and process.

A non‐profit organization, the Fridley Creative Arts Foundation, was formed to engage and connect with partners and donors to raise funds for public art. This group consists of a group of volunteer board members, chaired by former Fridley Mayor Scott Lund.

To guide the process of directing and selecting public art in the community, a Public Arts Commission was formed to serve along with the City’s other advisory commissions. The seven‐member group is appointed by the City Council.

Many different forms of public art are being explored including murals, art benches, sculptures, utility box wraps and an everchanging art trail of pieces on loan from artists.

Moore Lake Park

A celebration was held at Moore Lake Park on September 10 for Fridley’s first public art installation. The artwork is a large mosaic tile sculpture of a northern leopard frog by artist Jessica Turtle. This piece was inspired and funded through a partnership with the Rice Creek Watershed District and through a generous donation from Mary T/Crooners Supper Club.

Commons Park Art

A large sculpture has been commissioned from artist Ken McCall for the new Commons Park. This artwork will be a prominent feature of the park and will celebrate themes identified by residents through community engagement and installation is planned for summer of 2026.

Creative Flow Art Center

To further the arts in Fridley, we welcome the Creative Flow Art Center to our community. This art center, which is affiliated with Rum River Art Center, has moved into what was Fridley Fire Station 3 at 110 77th Way NE and East River Road. Visit CreativeFlowArtCenter.org for more information on gallery hours, classes and events.