Damaged dragon

Local artist still feeling inspired after recent vandalism

Jun 27, 2019 | 4:51 PM

PRINCE GEORGE— Elmer Gunderson’s wooden carvings in Cottonwood Island Park stand out to everyone who passes through. He has made 23 carvings of animals and mythical creatures in park trees.

Vandalized dragon carving

One of his carvings of a dragon was vandalized earlier this week. Gunderson suspects the vandal was attempting to steal the dragon, but did so unsuccessfully.

Gunderson was hurt someone would do this, but he says the support he has received in the community confirms his art is still worth creating.

“It’s incredible how many people are behind Cottonwood Island Park now with the sculptures there,” Gunderson says. “I never thought in 2005 it would be anywhere close to the interest that it has.”

Gunderson is in the midst of fixing the dragon and will return it to its rightful home soon.