Reiman Gardens recently welcomed a new baby.

The public gardens unveiled a new permanent baby gnome sculpture last week as part of its 2026 “Big and Small” exhibit.

Unveiled during an “ungnoming” ceremony, the baby sculpture sits right next to Elwood, the world’s largest concrete gnome, and gives visitors a new garden attraction to see.

Garden officials said the addition was an excellent fit for this year’s exhibit.

“We thought that a baby gnome would be the perfect complement to Elwood,” said Andrew Gogerty, the marketing and communications director for Reiman Gardens. “We already have a big piece in Elwood, so it just made sense to add a small piece to go along with him.”

The baby gnome sits near Elwood, the 15-foot-tall, 3,500-pound concrete sculpture that has become one of Ames’ largest attractions. There is more to Elwood than size, though.

Elwood’s name honors longtime Iowa State University professor of landscape architecture Phillip Homer Elwood. The gardens were originally located on Elwood Drive before the road was renamed University Boulevard in 2007.

‘Enchanting and adorable’

Officials hope the new addition will enhance the gardens’ mission.

“People get excited about new things and especially new cute things,” Gogerty said. “Our mission at Reiman Gardens is to educate, enchant, and inspire and we hope people will find our newest addition to our growing gnome family very enchanting and adorable.”

The baby gnome will be part of a new children’s book, Adventures with Elwood the Gnome: Small Things.

The Big and Small Exhibit

The baby gnome is one part of the larger “Big and Small” exhibit, which includes four other sculptures created by Tork Collaborative Arts of Columbus, Ohio.

The exhibit highlights perspective and curiosity, including a variety of sculptures.

Large trumpet-shaped sculptures have been inspired by carnivorous pitcher plants of the genus Sarracenia. Other sculptures include an oversized bouquet and a hillside of poppies colored in cyclone red and gold.

Together, the installation creates a vibrant journey that blends art and horticulture, encouraging the community to experience the gardens from a different perspective.

Finding a name

In addition to the whimsical enchantment of the exhibit, community engagement is a major focus.

Following the reveal, visitors have the chance to submit ideas for the sculpture’s name in the “Gname the Gnome” contest.

“We encourage people to get creative,” Gogerty said. “Maybe do a little research into the university and local history.”

Those wanting to participate in the contest can submit ideas online or a submission box at the gardens’ front desk. Submissions close on July 31.