Erik Loves to Solve Problems Creatively
“I’ve had the privilege of working with Erik Sletten in a number of capacities over the past 20 years. I first encountered his colorful and unique urban landscapes at his very first Mapworks exhibit at the (now defunct) Vintage restaurant in St. Paul. It was here that my interest in his creative work was sparked.”
“Since then I organized a stunning and very popular two-person show, “Impossible Buildings,” which featured Erik’s wonderful paintings alongside the infamous Aldo Moroni’s sculptures.”
Bloomington Civic Plaza | Acrylic on Canvas (2012) | 24″ x 57″
“In addition to his paintings, Erik also creates beautiful ceramic pieces, both sculptural and functional.”
“These we featured and sold at the Rose Schneider Gift Shop also located in the Bloomington Center for the Arts.”
Windows and Doors | Ceramic (2015) | 7″ x 7″
“No matter what Erik is creating it will push the boundaries of art and, most likely, it’s own form as well.”
“In fact, I also worked with Erik while I was a consultant to the City of Bloomington’s Creative Placemaking Commission. During this time Erik was contracted to creatively “decorate” a grouping of utility boxes. Instead of the typical vinyl decal most artists utilize, Erik decided to hand-paint each box and attach hand-created steel windows, doors, benches, fire hydrants, other objects that helped transform the once ugly boxes into colorful buildings – a miniature city within a city! They are, to this day, a beautiful and creative public art destination.”
Box Cluster 1 | (2016) | 3′ x 6′
Box Cluster 2 | (2016) | 4′ x 5′
“Working with Erik is a pleasure. He is a visionary who loves to solve problems creatively. Erik doesn’t shy away from challenges, and he will always bring a positive, ‘can-do’ attitude to every situation. I have always enjoyed working with Erik. I look forward to future opportunities to work with him again, and I highly recommend him as an artist, arts advocate, public artist, and creative entrepreneur.”
– Rachel Daly