In the heart of Portland, a city already brimming with crows, a vibrant spectacle has emerged, leaving residents and visitors alike in awe. The sudden appearance of giant, vividly colored crows on the city's sidewalks is not just a whimsical display but a carefully crafted art installation with a deeper purpose. This unique event, titled 'Wildwood: Follow the Crows', is a collaboration between Laika, Downtown Portland Clean and Safe, OHSU Doernbecher Children's Hospital, and Wild in Art, a UK-based art installation producer. The installation is a free, self-guided art trail that serves as a gallery, scavenger hunt, and civic celebration all rolled into one. What makes this initiative particularly fascinating is its dual nature: it's both a celebration of local art and a unique marketing strategy for an upcoming animated film, 'Wildwood'.
The story behind 'Wildwood' is as captivating as the crows themselves. It's about a seventh-grade Portland girl, Prue McKeel, who embarks on a daring mission to rescue her baby brother from a murder of crows. The film, set in the same city, is a testament to the rich, location-based storytelling that has become a hallmark of Portland's culture. The crows in the movie are not just creatures of fiction; they are a reflection of the city's diverse and dynamic nature.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this installation is the involvement of local artists. Each of the 30 crow statues has been hand-painted by Portland-based artists, adding a unique, personal touch to the project. The St. Johns Library, a significant location in the series, is home to a special crow statue featuring a map designed by Wildwood co-creator Carson Ellis. This statue not only serves as a landmark for the art trail but also as a nod to the city's rich literary history, with Ellis drawing inspiration from the original 'Wildwood' novels written by Decemberists front man Colin Meloy.
The art trail is not just about the visual spectacle; it's also an educational journey. Bird watchers and enthusiasts of all ages are encouraged to visit the OHSU Foundation website to download a map and the Wildwood Follow the Trail app. The app provides a checklist, unlocks rewards, and even offers fun facts about crows, making it an engaging tool for both locals and visitors. The statues will be on display through Halloween, after which they will be auctioned off, with proceeds supporting OHSU Doernbecher Children's Hospital.
From my perspective, this installation is more than just a fun, colorful display. It's a celebration of Portland's unique culture and a clever marketing strategy. It raises a deeper question about the role of art in public spaces and how it can be used to engage and educate the community. It also highlights the power of local artists in creating impactful, community-driven projects. What many people don't realize is that this installation is not just about the crows; it's about the stories and experiences that make Portland such a captivating city. It's a testament to the power of art to bring people together and create lasting memories.
