A bold idea from a Make‑A‑Wish kid has become a fully realized five‑foot illuminated ceramic lantern tower—now on public display through April 16 at the Crayon Kelly Experience in Saint Louis Park.

The piece, titled “Go Big, or Go Home,” was created through Wish Art, a Make‑A‑Wish Minnesota program that pairs wish kids with local artists to co‑create original works inspired by their stories and wish experiences.

The project began when wish kid, Mads, looked at Prior Lake artist Andrea Mullenmeister of ANM Pottery and declared, “Go big, or go home.” That challenge set the tone for a multi‑tier sculpture inspired by Mads’ wish trip to New York City.

Before any clay was rolled out, Mads and their family shared the moments they wanted to remember forever: St. Patrick’s Cathedral, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Broadway, gluten‑free bagels, the skyline and a handful of small family details only they could name. Each memory became a tier in the tower, each with its own sculptural language and personality.

Working side by side, Mads, their mom, and their dad carved the pieces that meant the most to them. “Watching a family shape their memories into clay was extraordinary,” Mullenmeister said. “Their touch is in every surface. It’s a kind of authenticity no artist could replicate.”

Light was always central to the vision. Each ceramic tier was carved with openings designed to cast shadows, highlight textures and reveal hidden details. When illuminated, the skyline flickers and the stained glass glows, echoing the energy of the city that inspired it.

“This project embodies everything Wish Art is meant to be,” said Mullenmeister. “It’s creative, collaborative, deeply personal and full of joy.”

The full installation, as well as work from other Wish Art participants, is in person through April 16 at Crayon Kelly Experience in St. Louis Park. A gallery reception will be held April 10 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Crayon Kelly Experience, 1628 West End Boulevard in St. Louis Park.