Thursday, December 9, 2010

December 9, 2010 - Thornton Creek


In Seattle a new fire station isn't just a new fire station, it becomes a place for new public art. And in Seattle a downspout isn't just a downspout, it can become public art while making an ecological statement.

The flag at the new Seattle Fire Station 39 in the Lake City neighborhood is viewed through the peeled steel pipes that comprise the functional sculpture "Thornton Creek". The 28 foot sculpture carries the water from the roof to underground cisterns that provide water for the surrounding native-plant garden.

"Thornton Creek", by Stephen Glassman was funded by a program adopted by Seattle in 1973 that requires that 1% of eligible city capital improvement project funds be set aside for the commission, purchase and installation of artworks to enrich the lives of citizens and give voice to artists. The title of the sculpture is named in honor of the community's efforts to uncover a watershed that has long been covered by concrete in north Seattle.



The red fruit and thorns of a Nootka Rose are part of the native-plant garden.

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