By Brian Hoop
If you visited this year’s Portland Winter Light Festival, chances are you were drawn to the crowd favorite large metal sculpture located at Salmon Springs Fountain. The Dread of Dufur: Fire Breathing Dragon, is the creation of Linnton resident and metal artist Ivan McLean and his co-collaborators Glen Boyd, Kevin and Rooster.
McLean and his partner Michelle Bressler have lived in Linnton for 25+ years. He has been an active neighborhood leader having served on both the Linnton Neighborhood Association and Linnton Community Center boards. Ivan has a shop at Green Anchors across the river just north of the Cathedral Park boat ramp parking lot. His commissioned installation pieces, for both public and private spaces, are located around the world.
Ivan originally created the dragon for “What The Festival”, which takes place at Wolf Run Ranch in Dufur, Oregon. Turns out the dragon for this year’s Light Festival was only the front third as they couldn’t fit the entire 80’ long beast within the designated spot at Waterfront Park. Some may remember a similar dragon at past Winter Light Festivals located on the plaza in front of OMSI. That sculpture now lives in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
In the spirit of the many amazing creative types living in Linnton, Ivan says, “Remember, you, too, can make something fun and beautiful for your neighbors to enjoy. Make your dream a reality and join the party!” Learn more about Ivan’s sculpting business at: ivanmclean.com or on Instagram at ivanmcleanart.
Learn more about the Dread of Dufur at: pdxwlf.com/experience/dread-of-dufur