Seattle Public Utilities Cedar Falls Artwork Project

The Seattle Office of Arts & Culture, in partnership with Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) and Department of Finance and Administrative Services (FAS), will commission one artist who works with natural materials to design, fabricate and install a site-specific, outdoor artwork at the Cedar Falls Administration Building in the Cedar River Watershed.

The selected artist will develop permanent, outdoor, site-specific artwork that creates a strong visual presence embracing the natural surroundings of the Cedar River Watershed and the work SPU staff performs at the site. The artwork should encourage viewer interaction and have a strong connection to the immediate surroundings of the new Administration Building, as well as Cedar Falls historic buildings and landmarks. Considerations for the project include the history of the land within the watershed, the history of resource use, the watershed's role in preserving salmon habitat, changing environmental conditions throughout the year, creation of a gathering place, or a living artwork. Artwork opportunities will be incorporated within the front lawn or green space west of the facility and must be viewable from the new administration building and Cedar Falls Road.

The selected artist is expected to develop a working relationship with Watershed Management at Cedar Falls and collaborate during design, fabrication and installation phases. During the design phase, the artist will work with SPU staff to explore the watershed and identify resources that can be utilized (wood, boulders, steel) for the artwork. SPU machinery and equipment may be used to assist during fabrication and installation. The artist will design, fabricate and install the artwork on a timeline that parallels the design and construction schedule of the Cedar Falls Administration Building. Selected artists should have experience working with design team members and a proven ability to design and fabricate their own work with community collaborators. The selected artist is expected to travel to the Cedar River Watershed for regularly scheduled appointments to hold design and fabrication meetings with Watershed Management. The city encourages artists whose work addresses issues of sustainability and green design to apply.