Meet Murray, the 2.5-Ton Moai Statue in Need of a New Home
Murray, a 2.5-ton replica of the Moai on Easter Island, sits in David Gee’s yard in Arleta.
As I stepped into David Gee’s yard in Arleta, I was greeted by a sight that’s hard to miss - Murray, a towering 7.5-foot-tall replica of the monolithic Moai figures on Easter Island. Murray has been a staple in the Gee family’s yard for over 15 years, ever since David’s wife, Diedra, surprised him with the statue as a Christmas gift in 2007.
The Story of Murray
Murray was fabricated out of volcanic rock, a nod to the original Moai statues carved by the indigenous people of Rapa Nui between 1200 and 1500. While the original Moai statues are dotted across Easter Island, Murray has become a beloved fixture in the Gee family’s yard. David jokingly describes Murray as “sturdy” and “waterproof,” but it’s clear that the statue holds a special place in their hearts.
Neighborhood kids flock to the Gee’s yard on Halloween to visit Murray.
Murray’s popularity peaks on Halloween, when neighborhood kids flock to the Gee’s yard to take photos and marvel at the statue’s grandeur. It’s a testament to the power of public art to bring people together and create a sense of community.
The Dilemma of Moving
However, the Gee family is now facing a dilemma. As they prepare to downsize to a smaller home, they’re realizing that Murray can’t come with them. The statue is too massive to transport, and they’re struggling to find a new owner who can provide Murray with the same love and care.
David Gee stands beside Murray, hoping to find a new home for the beloved statue.
“I had always been fascinated by the Moai and I used to tease my wife that we needed one,” David said in an interview. His wife, Diedra, was able to make that dream a reality, thanks to her connections with an industrial pumice company.
The Search for a New Home
As the Gee family searches for a new home for Murray, they’re holding onto the hope that someone will come forward to adopt the statue. It’s a daunting task, given the statue’s size and weight, but they’re determined to find a new owner who will give Murray the love and care he deserves.
Murray sits quietly in the Gee’s yard, waiting for a new home.
If you’re intrigued by Murray’s story and think you can provide a new home for this beloved statue, the Gee family would love to hear from you. Who knows? Maybe Murray will find a new lease on life in your yard, where he can continue to inspire and delight passersby.
