The Seattle waterfront is sporting new artwork, and it's a powerful homage to the city's Indigenous heritage. Two remarkable Indigenous cedar carvings, created by artists Randi Purser of the Suquamish Tribe, and Tyson Simmons with Keith Stevenson of the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, now grace the area between Columbia Street and Spring Street. The initiative, led by artist Oscar Tuazon, in consultation with the Suquamish and Muckleshoot tribes, is a respectful nod to a Coast Salish tradition that fuses architecture and sculpture: the carved house posts. Artbeat Seattle provides the details of the project named "To Our Teachers deqÊ·aled (Houseposts)," comprised of 22 pairs of sculpted Douglas Fir posts that stretch three blocks along the waterfront.
In the words of Gülgün Kayim, Director of the Seattle Office of Arts & Culture, "These types of projects offer a unique opportunity to incorporate Indigenous perspectives in urban design and placemaking and engage Tribal governments in the type of work that can redefine the cultural landscape of the City." In essence, these projects not only decorate the city but also foster an integral connection between the present-day urban environment and the historical significance of its original inhabitants.
The artwork represents the respect for and celebration of Coast Salish culture, art, and history. Angela Brady, Director of the Office of the Waterfront & Civic Projects, emphasizes this, stating, "As we transform Seattle’s waterfront, it has been important to us that we honor its history and move forward with intention." She hopes the artworks encourage visitors to "reflect on how we, as a city and a region, hold space for Indigenous communities not just in our past but into the future," as reported by Artbeat Seattle.
One of the carvings, crafted by Randi Purser, is a visual representation of Chief Sealth as an infant, sharing a historical narrative linked to Seattle's name origin. Another carving, by Simmons and Stevenson, pays tribute to the Muckleshoot warriors, a motif of strength and honor inspired by the artists' warrior-uncle and the collective valor of their ancestors. Chairman Jaison Elkins of the Muckleshoot Tribe told Artbeat Seattle, "Storytelling is part of our culture. This new permanent public artwork installed on our ancestral lands and featuring Tyson Simmons and Keith Stevenson (Muckleshoot Indian Tribe) in partnership with the Suquamish Tribe, honors and connects our past and our future."
These new additions to the Seattle waterfront are not stand-alone pieces; they're part of a grander scheme to integrate and acknowledge the city's rich cultural tapestry. Future installations by artists including the MTK Matriarchs, Shaun Peterson, and Ann Hamilton are expected later this year. This project, funded by Central Waterfront 1% for Art funds, is a collaborative effort administrated by the Office of Arts & Culture and the Office of the Waterfront and Civic projects, ensuring that Seattle's waterfront not only remains a visual treat but also a meaningful cultural touchstone for citizens and visitors alike.
