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The latest progress as the Fremont Canal Sculpture Garden takes shape, plus every newsletter we've sent, in full.
Where Things Stand
Sculpture/August 2026
Local sculptor Ron Petty has agreed to create a large, impactful sculpture representing Seattle's maritime industry. Many people in the neighborhood know Ron for his powerful and moving work “Fisherman's Memorial.” He also created “Animal Storm,” the totem to wild and domestic creatures that stands in the Wallingford neighborhood on 45th Street. His piece will anchor the maritime story the garden is being built to tell.
Milestone/August 2026
We are drawing up plans for a “Proof of Concept” in an area near Fremont Canal Park. It will feature three life-size wildlife bronze sculptures by Georgia Gerber, a short meandering path, inviting seating and native plantings. The Proof is designed to give donors and City decision-makers a concrete vision for the Park, a chance to stand in a small piece of it before the full garden is built. It should be ready for the public to enjoy next Spring.
Milestone/May 2026
The project is moving forward on several fronts. The City has named the Office of Arts and Culture to lead coordination across Seattle Parks, SDOT, Seattle City Light, and the Army Corps of Engineers through the permitting process, with our sincere thanks to Jason Huff, Director of Public Art. Over the next three months we are canvassing Seattle's maritime industry to shape how the park honors it, and the early conversations have been eye-opening: maritime and its related businesses account for 28 cents of every dollar generated in Seattle. We are also completing our 501(c)(3) paperwork, with IRS approval expected about six weeks after this final submission.
Design/March 2026
New artist renderings have been released showing the refined garden design. The updated plans incorporate feedback from the City of Seattle, ensuring the path and sculpture placements work harmoniously with the existing canal infrastructure.
Planning/Early 2026
The project team continues productive discussions with the City of Seattle and Army Corps of Engineers. Key design elements have been reviewed and refined based on city input, keeping the project on track for its target timeline.
Milestone/2025
Nearly one-third of the planned bronze sculptures have already received funding commitments from enthusiastic donors. The community response has been overwhelmingly positive, with interest continuing to grow.
In Their Own Words
August 26, 2026
May 27, 2026
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