Spirit of Washington
Artist
Marvin Oliver
MediumCast bronze, enamel, stone, cast glass
Dimensionsartwork: 10 x 3 ft. (304.8 x 91.4 cm)
base: 6 x 4 ft. (182.9 x 121.9 cm)
ClassificationsSculpture
Credit LineGift to the City of Seattle. Funded by Seattle Department of Neighborhoods' Matching Fund, King County Arts Commission and community donations
Description: A sixteen-foot sculpture at Columbia Library Park. The artwork takes the form of a dorsal fin of an orca whale depicting Salish symbols of power and rebirth. Each side of the vertical fin are reliefs depicting a stylized human figure in traditional Salish design. The abstract face of the figure is cast glass and the stone at the base of the fin represents the back of the whale.
The elements within the form and design of Spirit of Washington represent the cultural and historical diversity of the state. The human figure symbolizes the strength and wisdom of the individual. The glass "face" or "window" identifies the images of the present and the visions of the future.
Location: Columbia Park, 4721 Rainier Avenue South, Seattle WA 98118
