SEATTLE, (September 16, 2016) —Allure, a 22 foot filigree anglerfish has landed at south east corner of 14th Ave S and S Dallas St, just south of the South Park Bridge. Commissioned by King County in partnership with the Seattle Office of Arts & Culture and the Office of Economic Development, Allure was created as a gateway to the neighborhood by artists Diane Hansen and Jennifer Weddermann.

Inspired by the intricacy and quiet elegance of South Park, Allure, beckons the community and its visitors to linger and investigate the layers that comprise the neighborhood. Allure was inspired by multiple conversations with the vibrant community of South Park, who describe their neighborhood as a “small town within a big city.” The sculpture resembles an anglerfish and greets commuters and passers-by as they enter the business district. The depiction of the anglerfish embodies the community’s resourceful spirit, in its references to a variety of cultures and layers of history: from the farming culture that started this neighborhood and is now embodied in Marra Farms, to the current industries that continue to employ many of the population here, to those who still fish in the river.

The artwork is near neighborhood favorites, Muy Macho, Jalisco, and Mi Fondita del Itsmo. Napoli Pizzeria and Loretta’s Tavern are just a block away.

Allure is fabricated from ornamental iron and sheet metal laser cut with integrated motifs including many designed by South Park community members, symbolic of the rich history and cultural diversity of the area. The open iron filigree is covered with a brilliant metallic gold glaze.

Featuring a working lantern fabricated from reclaimed lighting from the old South Park Bridge, Allure stands as a beacon for South Park, beckoning visitors to come and enjoy the business district’s offerings. The lantern is illuminated with an integrated commercial solar floodlight, which creates a friendly and safe environment per Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) guidelines.

Photo by Hansen Weddermann.