The hilly landscape of Southwestern Wisconsin offers countless inspiring views. Nick Engelbert’s Grandview on a hilltop outside Hollandale is no exception. But here there’s even more to see.
Engelbert emigrated from Austria in the early 20th century and settled on the property after marrying Swiss immigrant Katherine Thoni. She had family in the area, where the couple set to farming, dairying and truly making the space their own.
Inspired by the nearby Dickeyville grotto, a shrine created by a parish priest, Engelbert copied the technique of using concrete decorated with embedded objects, stone, glass and shards of pottery. First he encased his home, then turned to the yard.
Over time, Engelbert created a sculpture garden with playful storybook characters and mythical creatures. It became a literal garden as well, with his wife creating plantings to complement the art.
After the couple’s passing, the farm fell into disrepair until it was purchased by the Kohler Foundation, an arts organization dedicated to preserving such visionary environments and the work of outsider artists. After much restoration work, ownership was transferred to a local non-profit foundation.
The Pecatonica Educational Charitable Foundation keeps the Engelberts’ creative spirit alive not only by maintaining the site, but making it the setting for a summer arts academy. There, among the colorful sculptures, artists young and adult have permission and inspiration to create. A living legacy from the Engelberts.
