Rochester, MN’s art scene is always growing, with vibrant murals, sculptures and installations appearing across the city. These new works invite people to slow down, look closer, and experience Rochester in a fresh way. Here are ten recent public art installations you won’t want to miss.
Mural outside Rochester Repertory Theatre
(Pictured above) Rochester artist Simon Huelsbeck recently transformed the side of the Rochester Repertory Theatre into a colorful work of art, splashing it with bold colors and dynamic energy.
The Weight of Water at Cascade Lake park
Standing 20 feet tall in Cascade Lake Park, this sculpture by The Milligan Studio shimmers with hundreds of pieces of colored glass. The artwork was chosen through a juried competition hosted by Rochester Parks & Recreation and the Rochester Art Center.
Mural at Cascade Lake Park
A new mural now brightens the bandshell at Cascade Lake Park, thanks to the Minnesota Parks Artists in Residence program. Following a series of public workshops, local artist Cassandra Buck brought the vision to life, transforming the space into a celebration of community and creativity.
Cave murals at Quarry Hill Nature Center
This is another new public art installation created as part of the Minnesota Parks Artists in Residence program. Artist in residence Cassandra Buck led community members in painting this mural outside of the Quarry Hill Caves.
“Great Blue Heron” along the Zumbro River Landing
Tim Adams created this sheet steel sculpture of a Minnesota native bird, the Great Blue Heron. It sits along the Zumbro River near the Rochester Government Center.
“Dynamic Landscape” at Slatterly Park
This sculpture by Hanyin Ma highlights the unseen forces of wind and sunlight and their impact on the environment.
“Dispersal” by Malini Basu & Tobias Gilbert at Silver Lake Fire Station
Towering six feet tall, this woven basket sculpture by Malini Basu and Tobias Gilbert is crafted from invasive buckthorn and is a tribute to native species.
Downtown Rochester mural near Broadway Plaza
Willow Gentile, a Rochester artist, recently completed this mural in the downtown skyway between Broadway Plaza and Hilton Rochester Mayo Clinic Area. It features a view of the downtown skyline, the Ear of Corn Water Tower and the Zumbro River.
“Greetings from Rochester” mural in The Galleria
Rochester artist Greg Wimmer created this mural on the first floor of the Galleria at University Square. From Peace Fountain to the Plummer Building, there are many Rochester features to discover in the details.
Goose Egg Street Mural at Goose Egg Park
Though not technically new, this mural recently got a fresh paint of coat and looks good as new! Residents and visitors in Rochester’s Lowertown Neighborhood came together to repaint the mural, designed by Greg Wimmer, during its 2025 Lowertown Fest.
Looking for more? Rochester, MN offers a lively mix of galleries, theaters, museums, and live music venues with captivating and inspiring experiences. Find more arts and culture here.
