Thanks to a generous gift, Nadaka Nature Park has two new bronze sculptures, both of which were unveiled during the Nadaka Community Festival Saturday afternoon.
The sculptures of an otter and a raven, match the natural theme of the popular park at 17615 N.E. Glisan St. They were crafted by Troutdale artist Rip Caswell and his son Chad.
"It's an honor to have our art placed in a nature park," Rip said during the Aug. 12 event. "I think it's wonderful to bring more art into Gresham."
The raven is perched atop a wooden pole, while the otter is rising on its hind legs underneath. Local children wrote in suggestions for what to name both pieces, and the final choices will be added to the plaque.
Neither of the statues would have been possible without a generous donation to the park from Gresham resident Joan Albertson. Gresham Outdoor Public Art and Friends of Nadaka were also heavily involved.
"This whole project could not have happened without everyone coming together," Albertson said.
While visitors to the park admired the new statues, there was also plenty of fun at the festival. Children enjoyed playing in the park, participating in various activities, meeting birds from the Audubon Society of Portland and eating free hot dogs.
