1. Introduction: Art on Trial
Imagine crafting monumental bronze bison sculptures—only to be sued over them years later. That’s what happened between sculptor Peggy Detmers and Kevin Costner.
2. The Backstory
Detmers created “Lakota Bison Jump,” seventeen massive bronze statues intended for Costner’s Deadwood resort. But the resort never materialized. She sued for breach of contract.
3. The Lawsuit
The case landed in South Dakota’s highest court. Detmers wanted compensation for her work—Costner argued the contract terms protected him.
4. Court Ruling
The South Dakota Supreme Court ultimately sided with Costner. The sculptures stayed with him and became part of “Tatanka: Story of the Bison.”
5. Aftermath
The sculptures ended up displayed at an interpretive center—Detmers lost, and the resort never happened. A creative dream that ended in art, not hospitality.
Conclusion
What began as a grand artistic collaboration ended up in court. Kevin Costner prevailed, but the fallout serves as a lesson—when art and development plans collide without clear terms, even beautiful creations can become legal battles.
FAQs
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What did Peggy Detmers create?
Seventeen bronze bison sculptures called “Lakota Bison Jump.” -
What was the dispute about?
The sculptures were meant for Costner’s resort, which never happened. Detmers sued for breach of contract. -
Who won the lawsuit?
Kevin Costner—he retained the sculptures. -
Where are the bison sculptures now?
On display at Tatanka: Story of the Bison, a visitor center in South Dakota. -
What’s the takeaway?
Clear contracts matter. Even grand artistic efforts can falter without firm agreements.
