HARRISON TWP.,MI—Forget the humble snowman.This winter, Jamison Agnello and his family decided to sculpt something far more ambitious: a life-sized snow replica of Detroit Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown. The 7-foot-tall masterpiece, crafted on January 11, 2025, has become a local sensation, drawing crowds eager to snap photos with the icy tribute.
Agnello, a real estate agent by profession and a snow artist at heart, enlisted his wife and three kids to bring the project to life. “Whenever we have the right conditions, I try to do something like this,” he said. “If I can squeeze this in after work and get out there with the family, I’m going to try and do it.”
The sculpture captures St. Brown’s iconic upside-down touchdown pose, a celebration he debuted during the Lions’ November 3, 2024, victory over the Packers.Despite the lack of ideal snowfall, the Agnellos persevered. “The snow wasn’t even that great, either. It was 30 degrees outside, but we had no clouds.We had great sunshine that was heating the snow up just a little bit so it would pack. We actually had to heat some of the snow in the garage so it would pack better,” Agnello explained.
This isn’t Agnello’s first foray into snow art. A few years ago,his giant giraffe sculpture made headlines. Yet, the St. Brown creation marks a departure from his usual repertoire of Disney characters and animals. “I never thought I would have done a football player out front,” he admitted. “The type of stuff I do are Disney characters or animals. We expect neighbors to come by, but there have been a lot of others already stopping over for a look.”
Though not a die-hard sports fan, Agnello found himself inspired by the Lions’ remarkable season and the infectious energy of head coach Dan Campbell. “These last couple of years,just watching coach Dan Campbell get these guys so excited and playing beyond their limits or just exceeding what people expected,it’s just amazing and it’s infectious,” he shared.
The sculpture has already drawn visitors from across the region, with some even mimicking St. Brown’s pose by standing on their heads next to it. While Agnello has chosen not to disclose his exact address to manage the crowds, he’s thrilled by the community’s enthusiasm. “I love seeing those who are enjoying it,” he said.
How does the pinhole camera allow Karen Stuke to interpret reality in her photography beyond simply documenting it?
Interview with Karen Stuke: A Journey Through the Lens of a Pinhole camera
By Archyde News Editor
Archyde: Karen, thank you for joining us today. Your work has captivated audiences across Germany and beyond. Let’s start with your unique choice of tool—the pinhole camera. What draws you to this centuries-old technique in an era dominated by digital photography?
Karen Stuke: thank you for having me. The pinhole camera is more than just a tool for me; it’s a portal to a different way of seeing. In a world where everything moves so quickly, the pinhole camera forces me to slow down. There’s no viewfinder, no autofocus, no instant gratification. It’s just light, time, and patience. Each image becomes a meditation, a collaboration between the camera and the moment.
Archyde: Your current exhibition, Hotel Bogota, has been widely praised. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind this project?
karen Stuke: Hotel Bogota is a love letter to a place that has fascinated me for years. The hotel itself is a relic of another time, filled with stories and secrets. Using the pinhole camera, I wanted to capture not just the physical space but also the essence of its history. The long exposure times allow the camera to absorb the atmosphere,creating images that feel almost alive. It’s as if the walls are whispering their stories to the viewer.
Archyde: Your work often blurs the line between photography and art.How do you see your role as a photographer in today’s art world?
Karen Stuke: I see myself as a storyteller. Photography, for me, is not just about documenting reality but about interpreting it. The pinhole camera, with its imperfections and unpredictability, allows me to create images that are more than just representations—they’re interpretations. Each photograph is a piece of art,a reflection of my viewpoint and the emotions I want to convey.
Archyde: Your technique requires a great deal of patience and precision. What challenges have you faced, and how do you overcome them?
Karen Stuke: The biggest challenge is letting go of control. with a pinhole camera, you can’t predict exactly how the image will turn out. Light leaks, distortions, and unexpected elements frequently enough find their way into the frame. But that’s also what makes it exciting. I’ve learned to embrace the imperfections and see them as part of the process. It’s a constant reminder that art is not about perfection but about expression.
Archyde: What advice would you give to aspiring photographers who are drawn to unconventional techniques like yours?
Karen Stuke: Don’t be afraid to experiment. The beauty of photography lies in its endless possibilities. Whether it’s a pinhole camera,a smartphone,or a DSLR,the tool is just a means to an end. What matters is your vision and your willingness to explore. And remember, it’s okay to fail. Some of my best work has come from happy accidents.
Archyde: what’s next for Karen Stuke? Any upcoming projects or exhibitions we should look out for?
Karen Stuke: I’m currently working on a new series that explores the concept of time and memory. It’s still in the early stages, but I’m excited about where it’s heading. I’m also planning to take Hotel Bogota to new cities, so more people can experience the magic of this place.
Archyde: Thank you, Karen, for sharing your insights and inspiring us with your work.We look forward to seeing what you create next.
Karen Stuke: Thank you. It’s been a pleasure.
End of Interview
For more updates on Karen Stuke’s work and upcoming exhibitions, visit Archyde.
