American artists ‘stands’ up for Scandinavian heritage with original design

Andrew Saur is no stranger to Scandinavian culture. The American artist, who comes from Duluth, Minnesota, has a strong connection to Scandinavia due to his Nordic descent. In fact, many of his neighbours living in the Duluth community also share his Northern European heritage.

Last winter, Saur, 32, along with several other artists was asked by a group called Twin Ports Pathways to design and create seven bicycle stands, each representing a facet of Duluth’s Scandinavian heritage, to be installed around the city. Saur’s submission, a steel-sculpted Viking ship, was selected as one of the stands that now grace the city. ‘The Viking ship has a cultural significance in our community,’ explained Saur.

Many of our neighbours and friends have Nordic blood flowing through their veins. The Vikings sailed these amazing ships on journeys of exploration and I incorporated that idea into my art.’

The modern-day reflection of an ancient Viking ship is now situated on the shores of Lake Superior, the largest body of fresh water by surface area in the world. The ship’s detailed dragon-shaped head faces towards Denmark.  Up to eight bicycles can be placed into the ribs of the ship, which is constructed from steel and finished with a powder coat.

‘I look forward to my bike stand being put to good use,’  Saur said. ‘This is my passion and I hope people will feel the same way when they roll along, exploring like the ancient Vikings.’