by artist Rebecca Remme
Artist Statement: Inspired by Norwegian mythology and a drakkar sculpture brought home by my father, this design transforms the beaver into a vessel of heritage. The head is painted to resemble the prow of a Viking longship, with Norse knotwork entwining a custom Bindrune created for Team Norway and the Remme family. This sigil combines the Elder Futhark runes Raido (journey), Gebo (hospitality), and Tiwaz (victory) into an ancient radial compass.
Huginn and Muninn, Odin’s ravens representing wisdom and knowledge, wrap around the shoulders, while the branches of Yggdrasil—the World Tree—criss-cross the belly to support the nine realms. From these branches, traditional Rosemaling scrollwork and acanthus leaves emerge, symbolizing endurance and spiritual triumph. These motifs also rise from the mountainous fjords circling the base, which emulate the minimalist, geometric landscapes of my great-uncle, the Norwegian painter Jan Petter Remme.
The sculpture’s foundation is rooted in maritime legacy: knotwork waves wrap the ankles, while the runes Sowila (power) and Othala (heritage) adorn the hands. On the soccer ball, the Norwegian flag anchors the piece.
Artist Bio: Rebecca Remme is a multi-disciplinary Canadian artist whose practice has evolved from personal expression into community engagement. Her lifetime pursuit in the arts has included study at OCAD, Toronto School of Art, Atlin Center for the Arts, and other institutions. Rebecca’s diploma in web and graphic design from IADT sparked a career-long fascination with the fusion of technology and traditional media. Curiosity led her to explore a diverse toolkit—ranging from encaustic wax and printmaking to metalsmithing and photography—earning her numerous awards, jury selections, and solo exhibitions.
In recent years, Rebecca has focused on the power of public art to foster connection. Whether through teaching art to children or collaborating on large-scale municipal commissions across Ontario, her goal remains constant: to design vibrant, meaningful spaces for the benefit of others.Visit www.rebeccaremme.myportfolio.com for more information.
IG: https://www.instagram.com/rebremme/
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