Dusty Thune, St.Paul resident, master sculptor, and owner of House of Thune Studio LLC, is fundraising to create a permanent sculpture memorializing fallen protestors at the hands of ICE in Minneapolis.
The inspiration for this project comes from the temporary memorial, 'A Call to Arms,' which was created for the World Snow Sculpting Championship in Stillwater, MN by the award-winning Team USA. The piece was removed by event organizers following controversy over its content, which was interpreted as anti-ICE messaging and included ASL signs calling for people to unite for peace, love, and justice. This removal sparked a debate about freedom of expression and the importance of honoring those who have lost their voices in the fight for justice.
As an ode to the courage of Minnesotans to stand against fascism, the hands and arms of the sculpture will be cast in iron, the lifeblood of the iron range, and a reminder that we draw our strength from the earth. The central sphere will be fabricated from plate steel, and the finished surfaces will be treated to create a patina that will only grow more beautiful with time.
The funds raised will be distributed by House of Thune Studio LLC. to be used for tools, materials, fabrication consumables, Iron Pour costs, installation costs, labor costs, permits for permanent installation, and a portion reserved for future maintenance of the sculpture.
By supporting this fundraiser, you are helping to create a lasting tribute to those who could no longer speak up and speak out about the surge of ICE agents kidnapping and attacking our neighbors. Your contribution will help ensure that their stories are not forgotten and that the message of peace, love, and justice continues to inspire our community for generations to come.
We invite you to join us in this important effort. Your support will help us transform a moment of controversy into a permanent symbol of hope and unity. Together, we can honor the voices that were silenced and stand up for the values that bring us together.
House of Thune Studios invites artists from around the world interested in collaborating in the creation of this important artwork!
Please reach out with your skillset, story, or connection, or follow one of the links below to contact Dusty Thune and learn how you can help.
Please follow us for day-to-day updates!:
Facebook: @houseofthune
Website: House of Thune Website
Instagram: #House of Thune