About Togetherness
by Jim Dolan
What It Depicts
The sculpture features two metal horses standing closely together—shoulder to hip and hip to shoulder—symbolizing a strong sense of bond and unity.
Location and Commission
“Togetherness” was commissioned by Project 412 in memory of Mark Knutson, a beloved local resident who tragically died in a biking accident near his Detroit Lakes home in 2023. The sculpture now graces a hilltop within Ortenstone Gardens, a new public park adjacent to other artworks like Barefoot Frida, one of the Trolls in DL by Danish recycle artist, Thomas Dambo.
Symbolism and Intent
The sculpture is meant to honor Mark Knutson’s spirit—his freedom, strength, independence, and resilience—qualities symbolized by the wild and untamed beauty of horses.
Why It Matters Locally
“Togetherness” isn’t just a piece of public art—it’s a heartfelt tribute woven into the community’s landscape. It resonates emotionally, representing both the memory of a person and the timeless nature of companionship and strength.
Special Words
"This sculpture honors the spirit of Mark Knutson, whose life embodied freedom, strength, independence, and resilience — qualities symbolized by the wild horses. Mark’s passion and vision for Detroit Lakes were boundless, and this piece reflects his unbridled enthusiasm and dedication to this community."
Photo Gallery
About the Artist
Jim Dolan
Jim Dolan is a renowned metal sculptor based in Bozeman, Montana. Over his 50‑plus year career, he’s created more than 170 large-scale public sculptures, many featuring wildlife such as horses, eagles, elk, and more. Jim’s style of welding steel and other metals into realistic representations is unique among sculptors.
