SculptureWalk’s 2026 exhibit opens downtown with 80 new sculptures, expanded programming

Downtown Sioux Falls has transformed into an annual outdoor art gallery with the arrival of 80 new sculptures for the 2026 SculptureWalk.

Now in its 23rd year, the annual show features work from 56 artists representing more than 20 states and British Columbia, Canada. Twelve of this year’s artists are from or based in South Dakota.

“This is always something we’re proud to highlight,” said Kristine Chrisopulos, director of strategic initiatives for Washington Pavilion Management Inc., which oversees SculptureWalk.

The exhibit includes a mix of returning artists and first-time participants, with strong regional representation from Colorado, Minnesota, Iowa and Wisconsin.

Installed throughout downtown, the sculptures create a free, walkable art experience that will remain in place until next spring.

This year’s collection emphasizes bold scale, movement and interaction, with pieces ranging from towering steel structures and mirror-polished installations to whimsical animal figures and works made from repurposed materials.

Some sculptures incorporate light and motion, including a solar-powered installation that illuminates after dark, while others invite a closer look through intricate bronze details or dynamic designs that play with balance and tension.

“This annual outdoor gallery is more than an art display — it’s a celebration of imagination, community and connection,” said Andrew Eitreim, SculptureWalk board chair. “We’re proud to make world-class art accessible to everyone.”

New this year is a series of Sculpture Talks, offering opportunities to hear directly from artists. The program is presented in partnership with The Watering Can. The first talk was held over the weekend featuring artists Luke Achterberg, Nathan Johansen and Sunghee Min. Additional talks are planned throughout the year.

Organizers also are expanding free guided tours and adding more interactive elements such as scavenger hunts to make the experience more engaging for all ages.

“We’re continuing to build on the momentum of the program while being intentional about enhancing the experience for both artists and the community,” Chrisopulos said.

Recognized as one of the premier annual public sculpture exhibits in the country, SculptureWalk features pieces selected through a blind jury process, with works loaned by artists to create a rotating exhibition each year.

The program continues to draw visitors to Sioux Falls, particularly during the spring installation period, while local response remains strong too.

“When our team is out working on sculptures, people often stop to share how much they appreciate the program,” Chrisopulos  said. “It really reinforces the impact SculptureWalk has on the community.”

Visitors can begin their experience at the SculptureWalk Visitor Center on the second floor of the Washington Pavilion, 301 S. Main Ave. The route winds along Phillips Avenue, extends to the East Bank, passes beneath the Arc of Dreams and continues toward Falls Park before looping back.

A full list of 2026 sculptures and details can be found at SculptureWalkSiouxFalls.com.