This spring the Office of Arts & Culture was very excited to begin working with contractor Diamond Kitchen & Bath to recondition Watergate at Meadowbrook Pond. Created by artists Kate Wade, Peggy Gaynor and Lydia Aldredge in 2000, the original wood comprising the structure has deteriorated over time and will receive a critical renovation of the support timbers to ensure integrity for many years to come.

In Columbia City, Marvin Oliver’s Spirit of Washington, a bronze Coast Salish design whale fin, received conservation treatments to restore its beautiful finish. Installed in Columbia Park in 1991, the Spirit of Washington artwork proudly ornaments the landscape between the Columbia Branch Library and the Rainier Valley Cultural Center.

On Kite Hill in Gasworks Park, artists Chuck Greening and Kim Lazare completed the finishing touches on the conservation of their historic Sundial artwork installed in 1978. Seattle Parks and Recreation have been working on a significant renovation of the landscaping around the artwork, including rebuilding the berms that frame the Sundial and modifications to drainage and access paths. Kite Hill re-opened to the public on June 15, 2015.

The Office of Arts & Culture conservation staff had the privilege of meeting with artist Val Laigo’s family to consult on the conservation of his 1981 mural East is West, located at Jose Rizal Park on Beacon Hill. Val’s family is graciously donating ceramic and glass tiles remaining from the original installation, and spoke with staff about the artist’s unique creation process and extraordinary life.