Portland's streets have been transformed into a vibrant, artistic haven, thanks to an unexpected visitor: the giant, colorful crows. This unique initiative, a collaboration between Laika, Downtown Portland Clean and Safe, OHSU Doernbecher Children's Hospital, and Wild in Art, has brought a touch of magic to the city.
The concept is simple yet captivating - 30 hand-painted crow sculptures, each a replica of the crows from Laika's upcoming film "Wildwood: Follow the Crows," have been strategically placed across Portland. This self-guided art trail invites locals and visitors alike to embark on a scavenger hunt, exploring the city while discovering these larger-than-life birds.
The Story Behind the Crows
"Wildwood: Follow the Crows" is more than just an art installation; it's a celebration of Portland's rich literary heritage and its connection to the upcoming animated film. The story, set in Portland, revolves around a brave seventh-grade girl, Prue McKeel, who embarks on a mission to rescue her baby brother from a murder of crows.
What makes this project even more special is the involvement of local artists, who have brought these crows to life with their unique artistic styles. Each sculpture is a masterpiece in its own right, adding a touch of individuality to the trail.
A Community Effort
The official launch of this multi-month event took place at St. Johns Library, a significant location as it is the home neighborhood of Prue McKeel, the main character in the "Wildwood" series. Carson Ellis, the co-creator of Wildwood and the illustrator of the original novels, designed a special map for one of the crows, further emphasizing the connection between the story and the city.
This initiative has brought the community together, with bird watchers of all ages encouraged to participate. The OHSU Foundation website and the Wildwood Follow the Trail app provide maps and fun features, making the experience interactive and engaging.
A Cause for Celebration
But there's more to this project than just art and entertainment. The statues will be auctioned off after Halloween, with all proceeds going to support OHSU Doernbecher Children's Hospital. This adds a layer of philanthropy to the initiative, allowing the community to come together for a good cause.
Personally, I think this initiative is a brilliant way to engage the community, promote local talent, and support a worthy cause. It's a perfect example of how art can bring people together and create a sense of wonder and excitement.
So, if you're in Portland, grab a map, download the app, and embark on this unique adventure. Who knows, you might just discover a new appreciation for crows and the power of art!
