Creating a Stainless Steel Polar Bear in Longyearbyen, Svalbard for Jason Roberts
“Sculpting a stainless steel polar bear in Longyearbyen, Svalbard for wildlife filmmaker Jason Roberts, celebrating Arctic wildlife and conservation.”
Tom and I are currently in Longyearbyen, Svalbard, 78° North, deep in the Arctic Circle, working on a stainless steel polar bear sculpture for wildlife film producer Jason Roberts. Jason runs his production company from Longyearbyen and has recently been helping the BBC capture stunning footage for Frozen Planet.
Svalbard is a place of extremes and fascinating history. Settled in the 17th century for whaling, it's now home to the northernmost permanent settlements in the world. The landscape is dominated by glaciers, fjords, and rugged mountains, creating a dramatic backdrop for both wildlife and human activity.
The island is also a stronghold for polar bears, which are iconic to the region. Polar bears here rely on sea ice to hunt seals and can weigh up to 700 kg (1,500 lbs). They are perfectly adapted to the Arctic, with thick fur, insulating fat, and incredible endurance in the cold. Sculpting one in stainless steel feels like a small tribute to these magnificent creatures and the fragile environment they inhabit.
It’s been an unforgettable experience bringing art to such a remote part of the world, blending creativity, conservation, and Arctic adventure.