Portlandia
Statue
A monumental copper giant watching over SW 5th Avenue. The second-largest hammered copper repoussé sculpture in the United States, second only to the Statue of Liberty.
The Copper Giant
Monumental Feat
Sculpted by Raymond Kaskey, Portlandia was so large it had to be transported by barge and given a police escort through downtown upon arrival. It sits perched 30 feet above the street entrance.
Symbolism
Modeled after the City of Portland's seal, the figure kneels at the building's edge. She holds a trident in her left hand and extends her right hand downward in a gesture of welcome.
History & Culture
Pop Culture
Gained global fame in the opening credits of the show Portlandia, featuring Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein saluting the figure.
Restoration
The statue was temporarily removed for major building renovations in 2018 and triumphantly reinstalled in 2019.
Viewing
Located above the entrance of the Portland Building. Best viewed from the street level on 5th Avenue.