Gateways Public Art

Olympia Crossings plan cover

About the Project

The Olympia Arts Commission and Olympia Planning Commission have developed a Master Plan for placing unique public art at eight major "gateways" throughout the City. This accomplishes several goals:

  • Places public art deep into Olympia’s neighborhoods
  • Contributes to a sense of community identity
  • Introduces place making elements that help to define and bring together different areas of our community

"Olympia Crossings - An Art Plan for City Gateways" is the blueprint by which to move forward on each of the identified gateways, presenting overall concepts and themes, location and cost analysis and prioritization.

MOckup of West Bay Art Crossing site with images of sculpture pieces

West Bay Art Crossing

The concept for the West Bay Art Crossing site was approved by City Council in January 2019. Developed with neighborhood participation, it consists of two sculptures, a 14 foot tall heron and a 7 foot tall salmon, that flank the road. Both will be constructed of stainless steel and tempered glass, with internal lights.

Project artists Lin McJunkin and Milo White have had their work included in the Percival Plinth Project for many years. The West Bay Art Crossing is expected to be completed in Fall 2020.

Artist working on piece for West Bay art crossing 

Artist working on piece for West Bay art crossing

Eastside St. Art Crossing

Northwest wood carver and artist Andrea Wilbur-Sigo has been selected as project artist for the Eastside St. Art Crossing. Ms. Wilbur-Sigo is an active member of the Squaxin Island Tribe, and her work reflects her heritage and a robust artistic community.

During the selection process, involving members of the Eastside and Indian Creek Neighborhood Associations as well as the Olympia Arts Commission, Ms. Wilbur-Sigo's artwork and presence came across as very approachable and engaging. She spoke with the jury about connection, home and place, and interpreting neighborhood story in her language.

The selection of Ms. Wilbur-Sigo feels very much a natural fit to this project and place.

Her design concept for the crossing titled "Unity" was approved by City Council Jan. 12, 2021. View the design sheet

Questions?

Contact Stephanie Johnson, at 360.709.2678 or sjohnso1@ci.olympia.wa.us

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