By Rich Larson
The Friends of the Northfield Public Library will combine art, film and a little bit of absurdity at their annual meeting next Sunday, September 27th, featuring Northfield chainsaw carver Curtis Ingvoldstad and a documentary about one of his most recognizable creations.
The meeting will begin at 2 p.m. at the Weitz Cinema at Carleton College, where attendees will see a screening of “A Short Documentary About a Giant Pencil,” followed by a conversation with Ingvoldstad and an audience question-and-answer session.
Ingvoldstad has created numerous sculptures around Northfield and beyond, including the Skol Drum used at Minnesota Vikings games. But his giant pencil, carved from a tree near Minneapolis’ Lake of the Isles, has become something of a Twin Cities cultural phenomenon.
Originally standing approximately 17 feet tall, the pencil has inspired an annual sharpening festival that began as a neighborhood gathering and has grown into a major community celebration.
Ingvoldstad said the sculpture’s appeal comes from its ability to connect people with art without requiring them to understand artistic traditions or visit a museum.
The pencil’s unlikely popularity also attracted documentary filmmakers Daniel and Austin Straub, who created the 21-minute film exploring the sculpture, its annual sharpening ceremony and the community that has developed around it.
Following the screening, Carleton College sculptor Stephen Mooring will lead a conversation with Ingvoldstad before opening the floor to audience questions.
Friends of the Northfield Public Library representative Bill North said the organization traditionally uses its annual meeting to highlight local writers and artists while providing members with updates on its activities and finances.
Founded in the early 1980s, the nonprofit supports library programs, resources and staff while advocating for public libraries throughout the community.
North said the organization’s annual business meeting will be brief, allowing the documentary and conversation with Ingvoldstad to take center stage. Refreshments will follow the program.
The event will be held at the Weitz Cinema rather than the library because of ongoing renovations to the children’s area.
Tickets are available at the Northfield Public Library’s front desk. Seating is limited, and North said only a few dozen tickets remained available at the time of the interview.
Rich Larson is the owner and General Manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net
