Hallie Thomas

The H.M. Briggs library is hoping to tempt large crowd through its doors. This spring the library is hosting international learning sensation: Perceptions of Radical Nautilus.

With its humble beginnings as a private collection owned by European trader Karl Protextor, Perceptions of Radical Nautilus (PORN) originated in Amsterdam at the turn of the 20th century. Originally comprised of rare fishermen’s sketches and crude photography, PORN has exploded into a multi-media extravaganza. The traveling showcase boasts many extraordinary features, including the incorporation of the internet to browse other PORN exhibits touring the planet.

“The world wide web is an integral part of the whole PORN experience.” says H.M. Briggs head librarian Katrina Johnson, “It’s really amazing to think that a young South Dakotan discovering PORN for the first time can immediately expand his or her knowledge by seeing what the rest of the world has to offer in the PORN series.”

One of the most stirring pieces in the collection is a film shot by world-reknown deep-sea diver Jack Castian.

“What Is It Worth?” depicts a brave and determined tadpole forced to rush its body against a strong current. The poignancy of its journey is illustrated by the uncertainty of its destination – a venomous sponge it calls home.

“It’s a living, breathing spectacle designed to stimulate the senses,” says PORN’s American curator Jeremy Ronald.

By far the most popular item on display is a perfectly preserved twelve foot long North Atlantic sperm whale. Captured in 1857, the whale was stuffed by Icelandic artist Nils Kjorson. Mounted on top of the large mammal is a jewel-encrusted mermaid.

“The symbolism of the piece is breath-taking,” says Johnson, “Obviously, the whale represents the quiet power of nature and the mermaid is an artist – riding her way towards creative freedom.”

Generously funded by private grants, PORN has very few barriers when it comes to pleasing people from around the world. “The size of our endowment allows us to reach deep down into the hardest to reach crevices of humanity,” says Ronald, “There are really no limits to what PORN can do.”

The library will be hosting the collection until it moves on to Moorehead, MN on May 1st. No doubt, many lives will be affected by the experience.

“Really the most unique feature of the exhibit is its accessibility,” says Ronald, “With PORN there is something for everyone.”