Hans Gilsdorf (Detroit Lakes) Born in Minneapolis, Hans moved to Phoenix in 3rd grade but spent many summers in the lakes area and always thought of Minnesota as home. He went to Arizona State University and then off to work in motion pictures doing sets and F/X (including the original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle movies.) He returned to Phoenix and got a dream job at the Phoenix Zoo sculpting life-size animals for the blind, the official launch of his career as an independent artist.

Hans and his wife moved back to Minnesota, and eventually, Detroit Lakes, where he continues to create art that impacts communities in hospitals, zoos, museums, parks, schools, theaters, and other public and private locations.

He loves to create art with details worthy of a closer look.

Hans creates art that entertains, educates, and intrigues.

He likes to apply his talent and knowledge in all phases of a project - working with clients, designers, architects, marketing, and fundraising staff – from concept to unveiling. 

He works in both 2D & 3D and an array of media, including ice.