Dannevirke’s Viking arises again
For 27 years traffic coming into Dannevirke’s High St could not miss the Viking some call “Eric” on the roof outside the Dannevirke Information Centre. Until three weeks ago that is — when he disappeared.
He did so because he was in need of some TLC, having deteriorated over the years despite being repainted in 2007.
Now he is back, cleaned up and resurfaced by the Dannevirke Menz Shed and featuring a new coat of paint applied by the original artist and local art icon, Pat Herbert.
Pat won a competition launched by the Enterprise Trust in 1991 to design a Viking and on May 23, 1991 he first appeared on the roof — built from marine ply held together by 50 screws and reinforced by steel — costing $569.10 — a lot for those times.
Pat says she gains a real sense of pride each time she passes up High St. She said creating the icon took a complete concept, design and artistic effort.
“After all he is 4.6 metres tall,” she added.
She said part of the challenge was to create the exact replica for the other side. She has actually painted the Viking six times taking into account two sides.
It has taken Pat three weeks of hard work in her garage to complete the repainting. She was able to use her original plans and Moana Beveridge supplied her with all the paint and equipment to complete the task.
The Viking this time has two new metal shields made by Metalform to go with its metal sword, obtained by Dannevirke Community Board chairman Ross MacDonald from the council’s supply of shields which adorn the protective fencing in High St.
The Dannevirke Community Board met the other costs of the Viking’s refurbishment.
For Pat it is a thrill to see him back in position.
“I think he depicts strength, dedication and leadership and I am proud to have been part of his life,” she said.