Son of a Dakota Twister
The Life and Works of a Folk Artist
Kent Gutzmer
Beginning with a snowbound winter day in South Dakota in 1984, the book follows Gutzmer’s unlikely path from an old carpet knife and a first rocking horse to a prolific body of work now collected, auctioned, and remembered across the country.
The pages bring together biography, sculpture, found materials, and archival context to frame Gutzmer’s practice within the broader outsider-art tradition while preserving the singular strangeness and warmth of his carved world.
Focus: folk art, carving, and mixed media
Setting: South Dakota and beyond
Includes: story, sculpture, auctions, and press history
Without formal training, Gutzmer developed a visual language built from repetition, handwork, and a sharp instinct for character. His subjects range from Bugs Bunny and Betty Boop to jockeys and jesters, Santas and Uncle Sam, to busts, flags, and jointed figurines.
His sculptures often combine wood carving with found objects, giving each piece an aged, improvised quality. That mix of precision and oddity is what makes the work feel personal, regional, and difficult to mistake for anyone else’s.
Practice: self-taught folk sculpture
Materials: carved wood and found objects
Recognition: auctions, collections, and national press
Look for Son of a Dakota Twister through major booksellers and independent retailers. If your preferred shop does not have it on hand, they can order it through Ingram Book Group.
“Son of a Dakota Twister offers a vivid and heartfelt look into the life and work of Kent Gutzmer. As someone who collects art pieces that spark an emotional reaction, it resonated deeply and reminded me why that instinct matters. There’s an authenticity in folk artists’ work that’s hard to ignore. Pieces made from salvaged materials add character and a sense of history. Gutzmer’s grounded, sincere pieces carry quiet stories within their forms. A fascinating aspect of Son of a Dakota Twister was the almost poetic story of how Gutzmer found his path: trapped indoors during a snowstorm, working with primitive tools, discovering a hidden talent. It’s a reminder that creativity can emerge unexpectedly, even in the most limiting circumstances. Knowing how much time it takes to perfect each piece, it’s incredible how detailed and extensive his body of work is. Every sculpture reflects patience, care, and a genuine passion for the craft. His signature style — long, thin, and slightly exaggerated forms — makes his work instantly recognizable and uniquely expressive. What makes Son of a Dakota Twister truly special is its scope: a carefully assembled tribute that showcases as complete a collection of Gutzmer’s work as possible. There’s something powerful about seeing an artist’s life captured this way. It’s more than a portfolio — it’s a legacy. By sharing his journey and creations, Gutzmer not only tells his own story, but also inspires future generations to see beauty in unexpected places and to follow their own creative instincts.”
— Julie Little, librarian and lover of history and books
“Son of a Dakota Twister is a thoughtful book that gives insight into a talented artist’s background and skills. About 15 years ago, my wife and I were looking for an Uncle Sam figure when we discovered one of Kent’s most remarkable carvings. We finally met Kent himself in Henry, South Dakota, while pheasant hunting in the area. Kent’s ability is unforgettable.”
— Collector of Kent Gutzmer’s work