Lake of the Isles Pencil Sculpture

Why a colossal pencil? Here at the edge of Lake of the Isles, stands a whimsical giant, the Lake of the Isles Pencil. This isn’t your average No. 2. Towering at 20 feet tall, it’s carved from the remnants of a 180-year-old bur oak tree. A storm in 2017 tragically stripped the tree of its canopy. Homeowners John and Amy Higgins, however, saw an opportunity. They envisioned a unique public artwork rising from the remaining stump. They commissioned sculptor Curtis Ingvoldstad to bring their vision to life. The Lake of the Isles Pencil was officially “sharpened” and revealed in June 2022. Ingvoldstad chose to carve the pencil on-site. This approach, while more challenging, emphasized the connection between the art, the artist, and the community. He wanted the hand-carved marks to be visible, a testament to the human element in the creation process. The sculpture is more than just a large replica of a writing tool. It’s meant to evoke memories. The scent of cedar, the click of a pencil against paper, the potential for creativity. It symbolizes humility and the ongoing process of learning and discovery. Every year, on the first Saturday in June, the community gathers for a special “sharpening” ceremony. The world’s only professional pencil sharpener, David Rees, has even made appearances. The Lake of the Isles Pencil isn’t just a static sculpture. It’s a living artwork, evolving with each annual sharpening, much like a student’s pencil throughout the school year. This whimsical giant has even embraced the holiday spirit. Last Halloween, the Lake of the Isles Pencil donned a Superman costume, complete with a cape and glasses, delighting passersby and adding another layer to its already captivating story. It stands as a testament to the power of imagination and community. It is a reminder that even in the face of loss, something beautiful and inspiring can emerge.