Llama on the Square

On April 3, 2026, the McLean County Museum of History hosted a free, family-friendly celebrating Robert Cumpston’s llama sculpture being installed on the Museum Square in Downtown Bloomington! The event was lovingly dubbed Llamapalooza.

Executive Director Julie Emig kicked off the evening of fun with brief remarks, followed by comments from Alderman Cody Hendricks and Mayor Dan Brady. The artist’s daughter, Traci, then shared remarks about her father and his artwork before inviting Cumpston’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren up to unveil the sculpture.

Folks then headed inside to view an additional display of the artist’s work, enjoy some refreshments, and partake in art-making activities – including balloon animals! Oak Crest Alpaca Farm from Downs demonstrated wool spinning and educated attendees on the various ways llama and alpaca wool can be used. And 60 llama-shaped cookies from Grove Street Bakery were gobbled up by the crowd in less than an hour!

Oak Crest Alpaca Farm from Downs demonstrated wool spinning and educated attendees on the various ways llama and alpaca wool can be used. And 60 llama-shaped cookies from Grove Street Bakery were gobbled up by the crowd in less than an hour!

Robert Cumpston (1930-2018) was born, lived, and died on his family’s farm in Colfax, a rural town in eastern McLean County. He was a corn and soybean farmer, but changed his career in 1976 to become a full-time metal sculptor. Cumpston and his wife, Donna, spent 38 years traveling across the country to art shows, selling their life-sized animal sculptures made from recycled metal and old farm implements. His work gave new life to rusting equipment and continues to spread joy in McLean County, and beyond.