Staff photo by Clay Schuldt Charlie Leftridge, executive director of The Grand Center for Arts & Culture, unveiled the Paul Granlund sculpture “La Familia II”. The Grand acquired the sculpture from United Church of Christ.

NEW ULM — The Grand Center for Arts & Culture held a special unveiling of the Paul Granlund sculpture, “La Familia II” on Friday.

The bronze sculpture was created by Paul Granlund in 1983 and was originally purchased by the United Church of Christ (UCC) in 1986. Last year, when UCC voted to dissolve, the church members made the decision to donate the sculpture to The Grand on the condition it be displayed to the public.

The Grand Executive Director, Charlie Leftridge said the center was fortunate and honored to be gifted the sculpture.

Former Gustavus Adolphus staff member Steve Hogberg gave a brief history on Granlund works. He said “La Familia II” was similar to several of Granlund themes. It has a circular motif and expresses delight and joy.

Hogberg said Granlund was a sculpture-in-residence at Gustavus from 1971 to 1996, but worked out of a studio at the college until his death in 2003. In his time at the college he made around 65 bronze figurines. Several of his bronze sculptures are displayed on the Gustavus college.