Leif Erikson Plaza

basalt, granite, stainless steel, 60" x 30"

In 2005, I was selected by the Leif Erikson International Foundation to design and supervise a new base and surrounding area for the statue of Leif Erikson at Shilhoe Bay Marina in Seattle. The statue was created by August Werner in 1962 as a tribute to those who immigrated from the Nordic countries to North America.

With the redevelopment of the marina and the need to refurbish the statue, the Leif Erikson International Foundation, in cooperation with the Port of Seattle, undertook the development of a new location, base, and surrounding area for the statue.

In addition to a new granite base for the statue, the statue is surrounded by 13 rune-like basalt stones that form the shape of a Viking ship. Each stone contains a Viking era inspired image and a plaque containing the names of those who immigrated from the Nordic countries. Currently there are over 800 names, with 500 more to be added. The plaza was dedicated on October 7, 2007, with over 1000 people in attendance.