By Clay Schuldt

Staff Writer

NEW ULM – There weren’t millions of fans on hand Friday afternoon for the unveiling of the sculpture of “Millions of Cats” artist and author Wanda Gag at the New Ulm Public Library, but there were quite a few.

Gag was born in New Ulm in March 1893 and later became a famous artist. Today she is best known for her work on the children’s book “Millions of Cats.” The sculpture depicts Gag in the act of sketching a cat.

The bronze sculpture was created by local artist Jason Jaspersen who spoke during the unveiling. Jaspersen said the sculpture was an important piece of public art. He believes the purpose of public art is for audiences to pause and consider the work in the moment. The statue of Gag was design to show her artistic focus. Jaspersen is hopeful the sculpture will serve as future inspiration for other artists.

The idea to erect a life-size statue of Gag in front of the library was first developed three years ago. The Wanda Gag Statue Committee began searching for an artist and the funds to create the sculpture 2013.

Committee member Diana Lee Schaefer pointed to a detail on sculpture. The tag on Gag’s shirt reads: made in New Ulm. Schaefer explained Gag’s mother was a seamstress in New Ulm and she made most of her children’s clothing, but the “made in New Ulm” detail also referred the sculpture which was created through the work of a local artist and funded through local donations.

Fellow committee member Denis Warta, said the sculpture reaffirms New Ulm’s appreciation and support for the arts.

Mayor Robert Beussman also spoke at the ceremony and supported the idea of placing matching cat sculptures around town as the next step in honoring Gag’s memory.

“We won’t get a million cats, but I’d like to see cats all over town,” he said.

Following the ceremony the public was invited to get up close and touch the sculpture. Several local children rushed to be the first to pet the cat portion of the sculpture and take their photo next to Gag.

Jaspersen said the sculpture was designed to be accessible, to allow people to stand next to Gag and take photos.

After the unveiling the library hosted a series of activities including a reading a of “Millions of Cats.” Several readings of the book have been held in the library before, but this was the first time kids could see Gag while reciting story.

The Wanda Gag Statue will remain on permanent display in front of the New Ulm library. Those interested in learning more about the famous artist are encouraged to visit her home at 226 N. Washington Street.