Metal bench sculpture with decorative elements, like lightbulbs, and a matching metal coffee ta ...

Light Bulb Bench

Artist Ries Niemi

MediumGalvanized steel, cast and fabricated aluminum

Dimensions90 x 130 x 96 in. (228.6 x 330.2 x 243.8 cm)

ClassificationsSculpture

Credit LineSeattle City Light 1% for Art funds

Description: An outdoor bench located near the sidewalk along the west end of the facility, this sculpture reused a number of cast aluminum light bulbs and switches from the original “bench” at Creston Nelson, which adorn the back of the seating element. The framework resembles transmission towers, with an outlet plate serving as a coffee table in front. A semi-circular pathway of recycled brick was laid under the bench with the assistance of the City Light landscape crew, using brick removed from the building to make a doorway located close to the bench.

Artist Statement: Personally, I like to sit and think. I like to make chairs and benches, and to give myself, and others, a place to do that. I also like to use the chair as a form to express other ideas on – in this case, to represent in common, everyday objects a little of what goes on inside this anonymous looking brick building a block from Aurora. Most of what City Light does is pretty hard for the average person to grasp, but light bulbs, switches and outlet plates are something we can all relate to.

Location: City Light North Service Center, 1300 N. 97th Street Seattle, WA 98103