On this date in 1986, the buffalo sculpture on the Capitol Grounds in Bismarck was dedicated. Created by Metis artist Bennett Brien, the welded, reinforced metal (or rebar) sculpture sets on a stone base.

Spanning up to 6 _ feet in height and to 9 _ feet in length, the statue weighs 1,650 pounds. Situated near the State Heritage Center, the buffalo seems to be midstride, as if it were running across the North Dakota prairie. Its front left hoof is raised, while the other three legs rest on the base. The textured metal on the front half of the buffalo appears to be realistic, like the fur on a buffalo. The rear half is smooth, with swirling patterns.

Artist Bennett Brien, a Metis from Belcourt in the Turtle Mountains, crafted the buffalo statue in 1986. It was presented to the State of North Dakota by the Dayton Hudson Corporation in celebration of the state’s 1989 centennial.

Brien is also noted for his soaring eagle statue on the University of North Dakota campus. Donated by UND alumnus Colonel Eugene Myers, it was installed south of the Chester Fritz Library and dedicated in the fall of 2000.

The soaring eagle status is surrounded by about 50 varieties of tall prairie grasses and flowers. The circular pattern of the flowerbeds helps showcases the plants against the prairie around it. The garden was dedicated in April 2002 and included a meal and the telling of prairie stories.

Brien, also a UND graduate, is noted for creating the “Fighting Sioux” logo. With a Master’s degree in fine arts, Brien once described the symbolism in the UND athletic mark, “The feathers symbolize the outstanding rewards that students, faculty, staff and alumni will achieve for academic, athletic and lifelong excellence.

The determined look in the eyes symbolizes fortitude and never giving up and the focus necessary for sustained academic, athletics and lifelong achievement. The paint on the cheekbone symbolizes that life can be a battle of daily struggles.

The color green symbolizes the development of young people and their growth at the University of North Dakota. The yellow symbolizes the sun, which provides humanity light and warmth so that life may continue. The red symbolizes the lifeblood that has been poured out to make our state and people great.”

Another piece of Brien’s work is on the University of Minnesota campus in Crookston. The stylized eagle sculpture stands near the Peterson Gazebo and was unveiled in September 2003.

As in much of Brien’s work, the statue reflects themes of the northern prairie’s flora, fauna and people.

By Cathy A. Langemo, WritePlus Inc.

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