Update, Aug. 23: In order to accommodate more fans and expected crowds, the Museum of Pop Culture has moved the date of the unveiling of a statue honoring Chris Cornell, the late lead singer of Soundgarden, to Sunday, Oct. 7.
Original story: Seattle’s Museum of Pop Culture is home to exhibits and iconic pieces of memorabilia celebrating everything from comics to rock ‘n’ roll. At the end of next month, it will receive a gift in tribute to Chris Cornell, the late lead singer of Soundgarden and a son of the city’s definitive grunge history.
Vicky Cornell announced Friday, on what would have been her husband’s 54th birthday, that she is having a life size bronze statue commissioned of the rock icon and that she will be donating it to MoPOP.
Sculptor Nick Marras will create Cornell in one of his signature poses, with boots, dog tag, layers and long locks, according to a news release.
“Even though Chris’ music touched the lives of millions around the world, there is no better place than Seattle to honor and celebrate both his contribution to music history, as well as Seattle’s unique place in popular music, with an enduring symbol of a beloved artist, father, and husband,” Vicky Cornell said. “Our children and I are deeply moved by the continued outpouring of love, compassion, and support, and this is our gift to the Museum of Pop Culture and to Seattle — our gift back to the tight-knit community that gave him his start.”
Cornell took his own life after a concert in Detroit on May 18, 2017. He was 52.
MoPOP, originally founded by Microsoft billionaire Paul Allen as the Experience Music Project, sits at the base of the Space Needle at Seattle Center. The curvy, colorful structure designed by architect Frank Gehry opened in 2000.
PREVIOUSLY: Ever-changing Seattle mours the loss of another touchstone in Soundgarden’s Chris Cornell
“MoPOP is honored to receive this gift from the Cornell family and pay tribute to one of the most powerful and important voices in popular music,” Jasen Emmons, artistic director at MoPOP said in a statement. “MoPOP serves to celebrate the Seattle music scene and the luminaries who have emerged from the Northwest and Chris was a key figure who has made a lasting impact on generations worldwide.”
The statue, which will be dedicated in a public ceremony on Aug. 29, will be located in front of MoPOP’s gold south entrance, facing 5th Avenue.
Happy Birthday my love…. Your life touched so many, you left your mark forever on millions of hearts everywhere. You were a rare gift to the world that is forever changed without you. pic.twitter.com/blOyfcgg4X
— Chris Cornell (@chriscornell) July 20, 2018
