Marshall Fredericks sculpture given to library

The Birmingham Baldwin Public Library (BPL) has announced receipt of a donation of a bronze cast Otter sculpture made by renowned artist Marshall M. Fredericks, donated in June by Dr. Franziska Schoenfeld.

The sculpture, purchased directly from Fredericks in 1993 by Drs. Robert and Franziska Schoenfeld, was affectionately known as “Otto” by their family. Dr. Schoenfeld chose BPL as the recipient of this gift with the hope that library visitors would enjoy seeing the sculpture, which brought her family so much joy, every time they came to the building, library officials said.  Because of the appeal to all ages, the otter was installed at the entrance to the Grand Hall near the center of the library.  With this placement, "Otto" becomes part of a collection of artworks scattered across the City of Birmingham for public enjoyment. 

In addition to the sculpture, Dr. Schoenfeld also donated a copy of the children’s book, The Impatient Otter, which she wrote, and which was illustrated by Ann Kelly.  Inspired by her own children's love of Otto, the story imagines what happens when the sculpture comes to life, to the delight of the Fredericks children. A copy of the book will remain on display with "Otto" for visitors to read through at any time. 

The Marshall M. Fredericks Otter sculpture was originally created along with a Rabbit, Grouse, and Hawk and is one of four animals surrounding the Gazelle Fountain in the Levi L. Barbour Memorial fountain in the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory Rose Garden on Belle Isle in Detroit, Michigan. A version of the sculpture is also in the Frederik Meijer Gardens in Grand Rapids and the Marshall Fredericks Museum at Saginaw Valley State University.

The sculpture will be officially received and the Schoenfeld family will be thanked at an open reception in the Baldwin Public Library’s Grand Hall on Monday, July 20, at 7 p.m.  Members of the public are invited to attend.