If you've visited Bryant Square Park recently, you may have noticed that our beloved dolphin sculpture is now covered with a tarp. While the sculpture remains structurally sound and poses no safety concerns, some of the beautiful mosaic tiles have loosened and fallen off over the years from the daily love it receives from kids climbing, sitting, and playing on it. ❤️
Rather than allow additional tiles to be lost, South Uptown Neighborhood Association and Bryant Square Park have decided to temporarily cover the dolphin while we determine the best path forward for repairs.
This dolphin has quite a history! It was originally built as a fountain feature in the Bryant Square Park wading pool when the pool was constructed in the early 1970s. Although the fountain stopped working early on, the dolphin remained a favorite feature of the wading pool for nearly 50 years. When the pool was replaced in 2018, South Uptown and the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board saved the dolphin from demolition and placed it into storage.
In 2020, during the height of the pandemic, South Uptown worked with local artist Sharra Frank to transform the concrete dolphin into the vibrant mosaic sculpture you see today. With the help of dedicated community volunteers, the dolphin was given a colorful new life. Sharra—who also designed the stunning mosaic panels on the Bryant Square Park Recreation Center—has graciously agreed to consult on the upcoming repairs.
We're excited to restore this cherished neighborhood landmark and will share more information as repair plans come together. Thank you for your patience as we work to preserve this special piece of Bryant Square Park for future generations! 🐬
