The story of 'Grace', Minnesota's official state photograph, is a compelling narrative of artistic vision, perseverance, and unexpected acclaim. Created by Eric Enstrom, this powerful image, depicting an elderly man in prayer, transcended its initial rejection to become a cherished cultural icon. Its journey from a humble photograph to a statewide emblem highlights the profound impact art can have when infused with dedication and a touch of serendipity.
The Genesis and Global Reach of 'Grace'
In the early 20th century, specifically around 1918, a Swedish immigrant photographer named Eric Enstrom captured an evocative image of Charles Wilden, another Swedish immigrant, in a moment of quiet reflection. This photograph, which would later be famously known as 'Grace', depicted Wilden seated at a table, head bowed in prayer, alongside simple provisions. Initially, Enstrom submitted this work to a Minnesota photography competition, but it was surprisingly overlooked due to judges' concerns about insufficient lighting. Unfazed by this setback, Enstrom, a true visionary, meticulously enhanced the photograph. He ingeniously etched a window onto the negative using a fine metal tool and skillfully manipulated light and shadow in the darkroom to create the impression of natural illumination falling upon Wilden. This refined version of 'Grace' quickly resonated with the public, eventually achieving such widespread popularity that the state of Minnesota officially adopted it as its state photograph, a unique distinction as the only U.S. state to do so.
The creation of 'Grace' took place in Bovey, Itasca County, where Enstrom photographed Wilden in his apartment. Lilah Crow of the Itasca County Historical Society recounts that Enstrom captured ten different images of Wilden in this poignant pose. Interestingly, many visitors to the historical society remark on Wilden's resemblance to their own grandfathers, underscoring the photograph's universal appeal and relatability. The town of Bovey holds 'Grace' in particular reverence, proudly displaying its likeness on benches, bicycle racks, and even as a mural on the exterior of Enstrom's former photo studio, a testament to its deep local significance.
Enstrom's commitment to perfecting his masterpiece didn't end with the initial enhancements. He continued to refine the image, experimenting with colors and even subtly altering Wilden's beard. In the 1940s, Enstrom's daughter, Rhoda Nyberg, meticulously hand-colored the black-and-white print with oil paints. It was this hand-painted version that garnered immense widespread recognition and reproduction, becoming the iconic iteration known today. While some critics attribute its global appeal to its depiction of serene piety, with Enstrom eventually claiming the book on the table, initially a dictionary, was intended to represent a Bible, its true power lies in its ability to evoke a sense of gratitude and spiritual contemplation.
The enduring legacy of 'Grace' was solidified in 2000 when a bill, championed by then-Governor Jesse Ventura, was unanimously passed, officially designating it as Minnesota's state photograph. This legislative act mandates that a copy of 'Grace' must be proudly displayed in the Secretary of State's office in St. Paul, ensuring its place in the state's cultural heritage. Despite the photograph's fame, Charles Wilden, its subject, remains largely an enigmatic figure. Historical accounts suggest he lived a modest life as a peddler, residing in a sod house. In 1926, Enstrom compensated Wilden with $5 to secure all rights to the image. Sadly, subsequent attempts by historians to uncover Wilden's later life have yielded no definitive conclusions. As for Enstrom himself, he was not a singular success; his photographic portfolio also includes the distinction of taking the first professional portraits of the legendary Judy Garland.
The journey of 'Grace' from a local photo contest entry to a globally recognized symbol offers a profound lesson on the unpredictable nature of art and its enduring capacity to touch human hearts. Enstrom's unwavering belief in his work, even in the face of initial rejection, ultimately led to the creation of an image that transcends cultural and geographical boundaries. This photograph, born from a moment of quiet reflection, became a powerful testament to the universal human experience of gratitude and faith, reminding us that true art often finds its voice through perseverance and genuine emotion. It inspires us to look beyond superficial judgments and appreciate the deeper meaning and potential within creative endeavors.