Cassandra Nguyen (New York, NY)
Archibald, 2006
Ultrasuede
20’ x 20” diameter

The mysterious and elusive giant squid resides in the deepest water of the ocean and is usually not seen by humans, but a few make a rare appearance at McLeod Residence this December thanks to New York artist Cassandra Nguyen.

Cassandra’s squid are actually stuffed animals, created in a variety of fabrics including ultrasuede, velvet, brocade, felt and toile. Archibald is 20 feet long, the size of an adolescent giant squid. Cassandra became interested in giant squid after seeing a documentary on the cephalopods. The idea of being the largest creature on earth and yet never seen fascinated her. When she couldn’t find anyone selling a stuffed squid, she decided to make her own and eventually refined a pattern that includes a secret pocket. Eventually she plans to make one that is 60 feet long, the size of a full grown giant squid.

Archibald is available for adoption at McLeod Residence, and a portion of the proceeds from his adoption goes to charity. Cassandra was recently featured in Giant Robot.

More information about Cassandra Nguyen