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The Granary

Written by Jeremy Smith
06/10/2006

FOR THE OUTDOOR LOVER, the art appreciator, and for the person who wants to spend several hours walking in circles in a calm, meditative state, we proudly highlight the Granary for this issue’s Tuesdays At Two exclusive. There is a little something for everyone at this out-of-the-way, but culturally enriching “just outside of” Aberdeen scene.

1. Get There
Your mission is to get to 40161 128th Street. But I’ll simplify this. There are two ways to get to the Granary: the direct route and the other direct route, all depending on your point of view.
    The first direct route is to head east on US 12 until you cross the James River. Be on the lookout for Granary Road #18; turn left here. There are friendly signs that will guide you to your destination. Enjoy your drive down a winding gravel road.
    The other direct route requires you start the same way down US 12 but turn north at Bath (left). After six miles, turn right on 127th Street and follow the signs to Tacoma Park. Cross the James River, go past the entrance to Tacoma Park and you will see a road going south. Again, friendly signs should point the way.
    The final leg of your journey brings you into view of a unique sculpture towering over the Granary campus.

2. Chartres-Style Labyrinth
Unlike a maze, a labyrinth is a meditative tool that has been used for centuries to explore, via walking a looping circuit, the spirituality and mental state of humanity’s existence. The Chartres-style Labyrinth features eleven circuits and an interpretive six-petal center. Things to contemplate while walking the Labyrinth are up to you, but you should have adequate sunscreen and water on a hot day.

3. “Walk with Dakota”
Stroll down a path through the interpretive landscape and sculpture garden and ponder some of the most interesting outdoor art in the area highlighting the history of South Dakota’s native and homesteading peoples. Some benches may beckon you to sit on them and absorb the scenery from their fair vantage points.

4. The Pond
There is a gorgeous pond amidst a green forest with spilling water, aquatic birds, and sloping banks that is perfect for the plein-aire artist or nature lover.

5. Enter the Buildings
The Granary hosts several art shows every year and is especially proud to display the work of local talents. There may be items for sale. The buildings themselves are unique and authentic South Dakota rural architecture. The campus contains a restored granary building built on this site years ago but now remodeled to house art exhibits in unique gallery spaces. There’s also a nifty gift shop and a cool winding staircase. Nooks and crannies abound in this building. Also on the grounds is the relocated and restored Putney Hall. Several years ago it was moved from nearby Putney. There is often art inside Putney Hall so don’t pass it by. I like the handles on the doors to the Hall. Last but not least is the gazebo, a perfect place for conversation or spending a moment in the shade.

Check it out at www.granaryfinearts.org

Granary Overhead
Photo by Nick Fischer
 
Granary Sculpture
Photo by Nick Fischer
 
Granary Inside
Photo by Nick Fischer
 

Posted on 08/09/2006 at 07:48a.m. by rebeccawho

The trip out to the Granary - 20 miles or so, is part of the experience, especially for city slickers! - I worked there as a volunteer for six years and really enjoyed being there. You never knew who'd come down the road and venture in to see what it was all about. The grounds and facilities have really come a long way in the last ten years. Great place for art and contemplation.

Posted on 06/28/2006 at 08:24a.m. by Josh

I have never been to the granary but it sounds interesting, and I fully intend to visit in the near future. I can't wait to contemplate the meaning of life while walking in a circle!

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