Controversial Euthanized Walrus Immortalized in Norway Sculpture

A bronze sculpture of Freya, the walrus that became a global celebrity after being seen in an Oslo fjord before being euthanized by Norwegian authorities, has been unveiled in Oslo. The life-size sculpture by Norwegian artist Astri Tonoian was placed near the spot where the 1,300-pound mammal was seen resting and relaxing during the summer of 2022. A crowdfunding campaign was launched to finance the sculpture, which managed to gather about $25,000 by October 2022. The euthanasia of Freya caused public outrage as people had not followed recommendations to keep a safe distance away from the massive animal.