MICHIGAN TALES : Lakenenland Sculpture Park

Photo by J. Moyer July 2019

When traveling east or west on Michigan's northern region of the upper peninsula on M-28, through Chocolay Township in Marquette County, be careful not to blink as you might miss a fun and entertaining little spot - Lakenenland Sculpture Park.

Tom Lakenen, the inspiring welding artist, encourages people to walk, bike, drive, and even snowmobile (Snowmobile trail #417) anytime, any day around his 37 acres of his mastermind sculpture oddities. He has very creative uses with the scrap metal he uses in his unique creations. He gives honor to the military, recognition to historical events, and even pokes a little fun at the government with his sculptures. There are majestic pieces of artwork as well as pieces that make you laugh. As a person snakes their way through the well used trail in a pine forest, they become mesmerized by Tom Lakenen's special talent for taking scrap metal and turning it into something interesting to gaze upon.

Creating this permanent exhibit did not go without struggle from the local government. As Tom's talent grew it caught the attention to the politicians and they were displeased about how he was placing his artwork. They went around and around with each other. In 2003, Tom bought the land the sculpture park now sits on so it will be easier availability to the public. The local government still raised eyebrows and pushed against Tom's idea. Tom eventually was able to have his sculpture park with the delight from the tourists who wish to come by and see it. The area is so thankful for the hard work Tom has done and how his sculpture park is bringing visitors to the area that in 2011 he was honored with Township Citizen of the Year award.

Tom asks nothing more of his guests except happy faces when they leave. There is a donation box but the focus is that the tourist has a nice time as they see the variety of artwork on display. This is a totally free roadside attraction for all to enjoy. And that is how Tom would like it to be. He wants his "junkyard art" to be enjoyed by many.