Scarecrows remind us that even standing still you can make a big difference.
Congratulations to the artists selected for our "Scarecrows In The Garden" exhibition.
"Scarecrows In The Garden" & Artists
· Sisters by Stephanie Baker and Nikki Baker
· Zappy the Squirrel by Detroit Lakes Public Utilities
· Woodland Witch Scarecrow by Kami Olsen and Beth Schaleben
· Nordic Nature Guardian by The Norsewood Sisters: Stacy Heinlein and Danika Leitheiser
· Jack of All Gourds by Nick Piche
Gorgeous, silly, serious, friendly, or maybe a little frightful!
You can see them on display in the Gardens from Friday, October 9, through Sunday, November 29, 2026.
Vote for your favorite!
While in the Gardens, use the QR code featured on the Scarecrow In The Garden signs to vote for your favorite.
Thank you to all the applicants for bringing more creativity, humor, and a touch of fall magic to Ortenstone Gardens!

Sisters
by Stephanie Baker and Nikki Baker
A nostalgic tribute to childhood afternoons spent together on a backyard swing set. Made entirely from natural materials, the sisters gently sway in the breeze.
Zappy the Squirrel
by Detroit Lakes Public Utilities
Zappy and his squirrel friends are the number one cause of power outages - and they certainly keep utility crews busy! Watch for Zappy to light up after dark.
Woodland Witch Scarecrow
by Kami and Beth Schaleben
This rustic, whimsical scarecrow combines a pumpkin-headed witch with vintage botanical style. Twigs, burlap, dried flowers, and pumpkins give her an earthy woodland appearance.

Nordic Nature Guardian
by The Norsewood Sisters:
Stacy Heinlein and Danika Leitheiser
Inspired by Nordic heritage and mythology, this guardian is crafted from antlers, cedar, moss, rocks, and other natural elements. Visitors are invited to leave a nature offering along the bottom of his cloak.