“What is the oddest place you’ve made love?” That question echoes from the House of Balls a quirky Minneapolis art space. Right here before you stands the House of Balls a testament to sculptor Allen Christian’s vision. For almost four decades this unique gallery has welcomed visitors. It’s an open window into Christian’s life a place where repurposed objects come alive.
The House of Balls started nearly 36 years ago in Minneapolis’ Warehouse District. It was Christian’s way of showing everyone has the creative impulse and the courage to express it. He’s even been called the Willy Wonka of Twin Cities art. His belief that inanimate things gain life force when touching living beings shaped the House of Balls. It’s a public space always open if the artist is present.
Inside you’ll find rooms filled with touchable art. Lovingly crafted sculptures made from reanimated plumbing parts false teeth pistons. Headstones typewriters pianos and of course bowling balls. The House of Balls is overflowing with bizarre and beautiful things.
If you visit at an off hour press the buttons. You’ll activate sculptures. They’ll play a cacophony of voices reciting answers to unusual questions. These are testimonies from past visitors answering questions like “What do you do with the tears?” People leave their own treatises their answers. They add to the ever-looping audio experience.
The House of Balls has moved to a larger location. It’s a third of an acre near the Cedar Riverside LRT stop. You can see it from 35W and the 7th Street exit off 94 West. It’s a bigger and hopefully better version of Allen Christian’s vision. The House of Balls continues to evolve. It’s a living breathing work of art. It’s a place where everyone can express their creativity. Come and see what happens in real time.