Life-sized sculpture of Oslo’s beloved wild walrus euthanized final 12 months unveiled in Norway

Freya, the wild walrus that turned a world sensation final summer season for its sightings round Norway’s Oslo fjord earlier than it was euthanized, has been commemorated with a life-sized bronze statue.

Astri Tonoian’s sculpture titled “For Our Sins” was unveiled Saturday close to the Oslo marina the place the 1,300-pound animal was first seen sunbathing in July 2022.

“This is how humans treat wild nature, but it is also how humans treat humans. This is how we treated Freya. And so, I will call the statue ‘For Our Sins,’” Ms. Tonoian mentioned, in line with the British Broadcasting Corporation.

The walrus was shortly embraced by Oslo locals, who turned out in droves to {photograph} the creature whereas it milled in regards to the harbor. They have been additionally chargeable for naming the animal Freya, the Norse goddess of magnificence and love.

Norwegian authorities repeatedly warned onlookers that continued public consideration would trigger the animal to be put down out of public security considerations. Authorities finally determined to take action final August.

“We have sympathies for the fact that the decision can cause reactions with the public, but I am firm that this was the right call,” Director General of Fisheries Frank Bakke-Jensen mentioned on the time. “We have great regard for animal welfare, but human life and safety must take precedence.”

Norwegian information company NTB mentioned a crowdfunding marketing campaign raised $25,000 final fall to finance the sculpture.