Bridging the Gap

Unbound and Forward

What if you could explore public art in a way that transcends physical boundaries? This project reimagines how we experience public art by transforming three of Fergus Falls’ iconic scultpures into immersive 3D encounters. I’ve spent my career at the intersection of art and technology, from creating motion graphics to serving on the Public Arts Commission, and this work is my answer to a question that’s driven me for years: how can we break free from the flatness of traditional web experiences to create something truly dimensional?

This is about more than preservation. It’s about making art accessible to everyone. These digital models let you engage with local culture whether you're viewing from across town or across the country. They also open new creative possibilities for artists and technologists to reimagine public art together. The goal is simple: to make our shared cultural heritage more visible, more engaging, and more alive.

This project reflects is a strategic approach to creative technology. Drawing on a background in digital marketing and creative services, it designs tools that dissolve barriers between physical art and digital audiences. The 3D models and educational resources aim not just to preserve sculptures, but to transform them into catalysts for creativity. By making public art more accessible, we invite everyone to become collaborators in reimagining cultural heritage.

About the Creator

Lee Smalt is a motion designer, web developer, and dedicated mentor working at the intersection of art and technology. Based in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, he brings over a decade of experience creating interactive digital experiences that he leverages to expand access to public art. His professional practice spans 3D animation, web design, and community advocacy, including his role on Fergus Falls' Public Arts Commission. As Mentorship Chair for Nice Moves Minnesota, he designs professional development programs and networking opportunities that empower the state's motion designers, animators, and VFX artists to grow their careers while strengthening Minnesota's creative economy.

Project Created by Lee Smalt 2024-2025

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through grants from Lake Region Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage fund.

In 2008, Minnesota’s voters passed the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment (Legacy Amendment) to the Minnesota Constitution to: protect drinking water sources; to protect, enhance, and restore wetlands, prairies, forests, and fish, game, and wildlife habitat; to preserve arts and cultural heritage; to support parks and trails; and to protect, enhance, and restore lakes, rivers, streams, and groundwater.The Legacy Amendment increases the state sales tax by three-eighths of one percent beginning on July 1, 2009 and continuing until 2034. The additional sales tax revenue is distributed into four funds as follows: 33 percent to the clean water fund; 33 percent to the outdoor heritage fund; 19.75 percent to the arts and cultural heritage fund; and 14.25 percent to the parks and trails fund.

If you appreciate Minnesota supporting the Arts, Environment and Cultural Heritage, please be sure to thank your representatives. For more info about The Arts about Cultural Heritage Fund Please visit: https://www.legacy.mn.gov/