Tip Toe thru Town / Town of Munster, IN

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Tip Toe thru Town

Tiptoe thru Town

with the Munster Civic Foundation

The Munster Civic Foundation (MCF) is dedicated to supporting projects and events that promote, foster, and encourage community spirit and pride.

The MCF was created in 1990 through an endowment from the Community Foundation of Northwest Indiana, the parent company of Community Hospital. For over three decades the MCF has funded various projects; sponsoring the July 3rd fireworks, purchasing flags and holiday decorations, contributing to the first bike path and the Munster pool, and assisting 2008 flood victims are a few ways the MCF has made a positive impact.

This year, we are thrilled to announce a multi-piece public art project featuring giant tulip sculptures measuring 5 feet high by 2 feet wide that will create a colorful town-wide exhibit for Munster residents and visitors to explore and enjoy.

The Tulip

After many years without a new initiative, the MCF Board committed to revitalizing the organization and formed subcommittees to imagine and lead new projects. The Art Committee soon identified a project to garner attention and enthusiasm for the MCF.

The process was a collaborative effort with input from residents, MCF board members, the Munster Chamber of Commerce, and outside art experts from IU Northwest and the South Shore Arts. Pat Popa, who led the Highland Ducks and Humane Indiana Owl public art projects, also shared valuable insight and experiences to help guide us to success.

The art committee desired a cheerful subject that would evoke joy and hope after a long, gloomy period under the pandemic, community-wide appeal, and reflect the MCF’s dedication to enhancing the quality of life in Munster.

After considering several subjects, a tulip became the obvious choice. As the first flower to bloom after a long winter, it marks a new season and fresh beginnings. Since Munster was founded by Dutch farmers, the tulip is also a cheery nod to the Town’s history.

The Tulip: Sketch to Sculpture

Tyler Kaufman—a sophomore studying graphic design at IU Northwest—designed the larger-than-life tulip sculpture. Tyler’s professors recommended him for the project and mentored him throughout the process. The 19-year-old Crown Point resident worked diligently to create the MCF art committee’s vision. Tyler first presented three sketches based on initial direction; he then refined the preferred sketch. Next, Tyler created a 3-D model for final approval. Currently, the fabricator is making a prototype and model of Tyler’s creation.