Auction of ‘Coraline’s Curious Cat Trail’ statues raises $324,500 for OHSU Doernbecher hospital

“Coraline’s Curious Cat Trail,” the installation of 31 cat sculptures inspired by Laika’s first animated film, ‘Coraline’, motivated fans of the film and cat lovers alike to take photos and share social media posts of the cats and their locations in Portlandto the cat farewell weekend, on October 12 and 13.

The installation was part of the 15th anniversary celebration of “Coraline,” which was first released in 2009. The cat statues were decorated by local artists and displayed at locations primarily in downtown Portland from August 2 until October 13.

After “Coraline’s Curious Cat Trail” concluded, the images were auctioned off to raise money for the OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital. According to a press release from Portland Metro Chamber/Downtown Portland Clean & Safe, the auction raised $324,500.

The press release also states that, based on preliminary economic data, it is estimated that more than 135,000 people visited the “Coraline’s Curious Cat Trail,” with an “economic impact of $4 million to the downtown area.”

The farewell weekend of Oct. 12 and 13 drew 10,000 visitors to Director Park, the release said.

The release also includes a statement from David Burke, Laika’s Chief Marketing & Operations Officer. “Our collaboration with the Visit Downtown Campaign and Wild in Art to celebrate the 15th anniversary of ‘Coraline’ highlighted Portland’s vibrant creativity and inspired thousands of visitors,” said Burke. “We are incredibly proud to have been part of such an impactful initiative.”