As South Lake Union continues to thrive and develop, public art is connecting residents, employees, and visitors through conversation and community. Paul Allen’s Vulcan Inc. commissions artwork for all new buildings. Since 2003, 16 original artworks, ranging from window pieces to freestanding installations, have enlivened the neighborhood.
“The art really adds to the architecture and friendliness of the area,” says Greg Bell, Vulcan’s senior curator. “By putting art into public spaces, it naturally encourages dialogue, brings out questions, interests and associations. It gives you a ticket to go somewhere else in your mind.”
SLU is home to three new pieces in 2015—an international installation on indefinite loan from the Paul G. Allen Family Collection and two originals pieces by Northwest artists.
“These pieces make every day a little different. They help set the mood and bring people together in amazing ways,” Bell says.