The cherry weighs approximately 1,200 pounds, while the spoon weighs nearly 5,800 pounds.
The water spray from the cherry is designed to create a mist that prevents the sculpture from looking static.
The spoon's shape was inspired by a drawing of a spoon floating in a pond, which the artists developed after a request for a fountain piece.
In winter, the water is turned off to prevent freezing damage to the internal plumbing systems.
The sculpture is often cleaned and repainted by professionals to maintain the vibrant red finish of the cherry.
The sculpture garden surrounding the piece is one of the largest urban sculpture parks in the country.
Spoonbridge and Cherry is a iconic large-scale fountain sculpture located within the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. Created by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen in 1988, it serves as the centerpiece of the 11-acre park. The sculpture features a massive aluminum spoon supporting a oversized cherry, which also functions as a fountain that sprays water into the surrounding pond. The work was commissioned specifically for the Walker Art Center's outdoor collection. It is constructed from stainless steel and aluminum, finished with polyurethane enamel. The sculpture stands as one of the most recognizable public art installations in the United States.
From the bridge spanning the pond, looking directly at the cherry with the spoon handle leading the eye.
Visit during the golden hour for optimal lighting on the red surface of the cherry.
Walk the perimeter of the pond to see the sculpture from multiple angles against the Minneapolis skyline.
Combine your visit with a walk through the rest of the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden to see dozens of other contemporary works.
Attempting to touch or climb the structure, which is prohibited and potentially damaging.
The water feature is typically disabled during the winter months due to sub-zero temperatures.
Do not climb on the sculpture; stay behind the designated fencing or paths.
