Fame, c. fourth quarter 19th century, J.L. Mott Iron Works, New York City and Chicago (1882-96), copper, zinc, gilt, collection of Stewart Stender and Deborah Davenport

Wind and Whimsy: Weathervanes and Whirligigs from Twin Cities Collections

Saturday, November 17, 2007—Sunday, April 13, 2008
Cargill Gallery 103
Free Exhibition

Weathervanes have been used throughout history to predict changes in the weather based on the direction of the wind. Weathervanes came in a variety of shapes, including animals, banners, arrows, and various human figures. Early American colonists continued the European tradition by placing handmade vanes on churches, public meetinghouses, and barns.

This exhibition features approximately 40 weathervanes and whirligigs from the MIA collection alongside loans from prominent local collections. It includes both handmade folk art and manufactured examples from the eighteenth through the twentieth centuries.