Wander MN: State Fair Overflow Art Show

The Minnesota State Fair kicks off on Thursday. One popular attraction there is the display at the Fine Arts building. The exhibit is the result of an annual competition for Minnesota artists. Thousands of people apply; a first round is chosen; then that group is winnowed down to the final exhibit. Generally between 300-400 pieces of art are chosen to exhibit.

But what happens to some of the other pieces of art? Well, those that made the first cut but not the final cut are invited—in a limited number—to exhibit at the Salon 300 State Fair Overflow Show at the Hopkins Center for the Arts. That show is now open and will be available through Sept. 1, free admission.

The mediums and topics vary greatly.

From a beautiful mosaic poppy to this whimsical photo.

Although a Minnesota theme is not required—and settings from all over the world can be found in this exhibit—it's perhaps not surprising that Minnesota does pop up frequently, in various guises.

Here, as a very classic and traditional view of a young boy from Shakopee.

Or in this crowded, fractured look at the 4F bus on Lyndale Avenue.

The Fair itself is captured at night.

A farmstead in Hamel—can you see it?

And my favorite—a study of eggs from different birds found in Minnesota, complete with descriptions of each bird.

It just goes to show—there appears to be far more talented artists in this state than there is room for them to display at the Fair.

What else is happening in our state? Be sure to check out the 10 p.m. Sunday night WCCO newscasts, where you can learn more in the weekly segment, Finding Minnesota.