The State Emblems Redesign Commission's goal to adopt a new state flag and seal is now halfway complete after the group moved forward with one of five design finalists.
In a meeting over Zoom on Tuesday morning, the commission approved seal S224, depicting Minnesota's official state bird, the common loon. The approval came with a clause that allows potential modifications the commission deems appropriate before the decision is finalized. They'll address any potential changes at their next meeting on Dec. 12.
Ross Bruggink, the artist behind the design, told KARE 11 he's "honored."
“I truly feel honored," he said. "I love this state and hope that this can be a symbol people can be proud of. Though it speaks for itself, it proudly represents our natural resources and state symbols.
I believe it works best in a single color, and as a seal, this may often be the case. I am fine with copy and color changes, and am excited to iterate on the design edits the commission lands on.”
At the time of his entry, Bruggink said the seal signified "pride and energy."
"This emblem features the state bird in a pose that signifies pride and energy. The waves symbolize our abundance of lakes. The wild rice, our state grain, represents agriculture of today and of Native American tribes. The pine trees represent our forests and land. 19 stars fill the sky to represent MN as the 19th state to join the union after the original 13. The large North Star represents Minnesota. Elements from the previous seal are used: the circular shape, similar typography and radial pattern. This symbol represents the abundance of natural resources that are the foundation of the economy and vitality of Minnesota."
The commission has two more meetings before its Jan. 1 deadline to have a seal and flag in place. Now with one choice (mostly) behind them, the group will choose from six flag finalists at its final meeting before the end of the year.
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