Olympia’s Public Art Scene: Voting for the Future
The Percival Plinth People’s Choice Award is back, and Olympia’s vibrant arts community is buzzing! This year, the spotlight shines on 18 remarkable sculptures gracing the Olympia waterfront. But this isn’t just an art exhibition; it’s a chance for you, the community, to shape the future of public art in our city.
Sculptures on Display: A Tapestry of Creativity
From the dynamic “Salmon Returning” by Mark Brody to the whimsical “Prehistoric Dragonfly” by Leon White, the exhibition showcases a diverse range of artistic styles and themes. These temporary installations offer a unique opportunity to experience art in the open air. As you wander through Percival Landing, take your time to appreciate the craftsmanship and the stories each piece tells.
The featured artists represent a wide geographic range, with creators hailing from Oregon and Washington. The variety of artists contributes to the richness of the exhibition and fosters a dialogue between different artistic perspectives. Here’s a quick glimpse at the sculptures and the artists:
- Salmon Returning by Mark Brody (Portland, Oregon)
- Tame Dog by Dan Brown (Okanogan, Washington)
- Clarity by Deon Duncan (Junction City, Oregon)
- Swim Series II by Deon Duncan (Junction City, Oregon)
- Out of the Deep End by Jenny Ellsworth (Oregon City, Oregon)
- Silver Flower by Charles Fitzgerald and Jim Null (Puyallup and Grapeview, Washington)
- Enervate by Moe Jerome (Freeland, Washington)
- Iris by Will Jewett (Seattle, Washington)
- River Flow, Legends of the Moon by Shawn Johnson (Seattle, Washington)
- Flex by Jon Kalin (Rochester, Washington)
- Ascending Descent by Jennifer Kapnek (Portland, Oregon)
- Porcupine by Ed McCarthy (Renton, Washington)
- Otter Moon by Pat McVay (Clinton, Washington)
- Through the Void by Kyle Ocean (Shelton, Washington)
- Through the Void II by Kyle Ocean (Shelton, Washington)
- Crane Study #47 by Robert Pond (Oregon City, Oregon)
- Keeping Time by Ken Turner (Seattle, Washington)
- Prehistoric Dragonfly by Leon White (Seattle, Washington)
Don’t just observe; engage! The public’s vote determines which artwork becomes a permanent fixture in Olympia’s public art collection. The winning artist also receives a generous award of up to $10,000, providing valuable support for their artistic endeavors. This initiative underscores the city’s commitment to fostering a thriving arts environment.
Why Public Art Matters
Public art offers more than just visual appeal. It enriches our communities by:
- Enhancing Civic Pride: Art transforms public spaces, creating landmarks that residents can identify with and feel proud of.
- Boosting Economic Development: Well-designed public art can attract tourists and revitalize neighborhoods, leading to increased business for local establishments.
- Promoting Community Engagement: Public art often sparks dialogue and encourages interaction among residents, fostering a stronger sense of belonging.
According to a 2023 study by Americans for the Arts, communities with significant public art investments experience higher levels of civic engagement and economic activity. Public art is essential for making cities more livable.
How to Vote and Make Your Voice Heard
Voting is simple! Visit the voting website and cast your ballot. The deadline to vote is August 1. Each vote contributes to determining which piece gets permanently installed. The process is easy and allows everyone to participate in shaping the city’s cultural landscape. Be sure to visit the Percival Landing to see the sculptures in person before you cast your vote!
Pro Tip: Before you vote, take photos of your favorite sculptures and share them on social media using the hashtag #OlympiaArtVote. Engage with fellow art enthusiasts and spark conversations.
Beyond the Vote: The Future of Art in Olympia
What can we expect from the future of art in Olympia? The success of the Percival Plinth People’s Choice Award suggests a growing interest in and support for public art initiatives. We can anticipate:
- Increased Funding: As public interest grows, expect more investment in public art projects.
- More Diverse Art Forms: We might see a broader range of artistic expressions, including digital art, interactive installations, and performance art.
- Community Collaboration: Artists and community organizations are joining hands to incorporate local voices into the art.
Olympia is on the cusp of an exciting artistic future. By participating in the Percival Plinth People’s Choice Award, you are not just voting for your favorite sculpture; you are investing in a more vibrant, creative, and engaging community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is the exhibition located?
A: The sculptures are located along Olympia’s waterfront park at Percival Landing.
Q: When does voting end?
A: Voting closes on August 1st.
Q: How do I vote?
A: You can vote by clicking the link provided in the article. You can also view the sculptures in person at Percival Landing.
Q: What does the winning artist receive?
A: The winning artist will have their work permanently installed in Olympia’s public art collection and will receive an award of up to $10,000.
Did you know? Olympia’s public art program has been instrumental in revitalizing the downtown area. Recent data from the Olympia Downtown Association shows a 15% increase in foot traffic near public art installations.
Ready to shape the future of Olympia’s public art? Cast your vote today and share this article with your friends and neighbors! What are your thoughts on the current sculpture selection? Share your comments below!
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