Drakkar-Leviathan (by Taibola Assemble)

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Drakkar-Leviathan towers over Norway's Finnmark coast in Vardø, standing 28.5 meters long, 6.5 meters high, and 6 meters wide. Born from the vision of Taibola Assemble, a Russian art collective hailing from Arkhangelsk, this monumental sculpture is deeply rooted in the history and culture of its surroundings. Vardø Island, situated in the Barents Sea, boasts a rich heritage that spans centuries. In times past, it was a crucial hub for trade between Norway and Russia, a thriving port for fishermen, and a base for whalers. The Vikings, who once conquered these lands, left an indelible mark on the island's architecture, with buildings crafted from timber and driftwood brought from across the sea. Members of Taibola Assemble, born in the sister city of Arkhangelsk, drew inspiration from this storied past to create Drakkar-Leviathan. The sculpture is a testament to the enduring power of human migration, myths, historical events, and the natural world. By repurposing planks from the ruins of Vardø's old town buildings as its construction material, Taibola Assemble not only honored their heritage but also underscored the importance of preserving cultural legacies. Drakkar-Leviathan stands as a tribute to the Arctic environment, human resilience, and the unbreakable bond between nature and humanity.