[1] Because of the difference in their ages and the ambiguity of their relationship, Mairs and Haupers remained always a bit of a Twin Cities scandal.
Mairs and Haupers stayed in France for two years, attending classes held by notable artists such as the sculptor Émile-Antoine Bourdelle and the Cubist painter André Lhote.
Works such as the drypoint print Three Graces show a decidedly French treatment of nudity and the body—slightly shocking to mid-century Minnesotan eyes.
During a meeting with Fair officials at St. Paul's Lowry Hotel, Haupers was, in his words, “shoved” by fellow artist Cameron Booth into leading the department.
Juried prize shows were reinstated, as were special exhibitions representing well-known and up-and-coming local artists.
He was a successful and indefatigable director and his devotion to securing projects and supporting young and established artists greatly influenced the growth of the arts in Minnesota.
His influence on decades of young artists was as instrumental in developing the visual arts in Minnesota as his administrative roles.