Pipestone National Monument, Porter Sculpture Park, Corn Palace
June 24

After the interview, Keith treated me to breakfast, and then I set off. After the deluge on Saturday, it was a welcomed change to have sun. I realize that I am trying to find my rhythm again to enjoy the ride and although the sun is out, there are still road closures in my path (spoiler alert).

Pipestone National Monument, Pipestone, MN

Pipestone National Monument in Minnesota is a historically significant site where Native Americans have quarried red pipestone for centuries to craft ceremonial pipes. The monument preserves the quarries, along with prairies and culturally significant petroglyphs. It serves as a place of cultural and spiritual importance for many tribes, including the Dakota, Lakota, and other Plains Indians. Visitors can explore the visitor center, watch demonstrations of pipestone carving, and walk trails that highlight the area's natural beauty and historical significance.

Porter Sculpture Park, Montrose, SD

Porter Sculpture Park, located near Montrose, South Dakota, is an outdoor art gallery featuring over 50 large-scale sculptures created by artist Wayne Porter. The park is known for its eclectic and whimsical pieces, including a 60-foot-tall bull head and other surreal, thought-provoking works made from scrap metal and other materials. Visitors can explore the sculptures up close, enjoying the blend of art and nature in a unique, open-air setting.

Wayne Porter, the artist behind Porter Sculpture Park, is a self-taught sculptor who draws inspiration from a variety of sources, including history, mythology, and personal experiences. Originally from South Dakota, Porter uses scrap metal and other unconventional materials to create his large-scale, whimsical, and thought-provoking sculptures. His work reflects a deep appreciation for both art and the rural landscape, inviting viewers to explore and interpret his creations in an open and interactive environment.