Public Art

A dynamic, multicolored geometric sculpture evokes a great bird's expansive wings.

Explore more than 60 works of art in the public art collection!

Mercer Island's robust public art collection is an important avenue for engaging the community with arts, culture, and creativity. The collection features more than 60 two-dimensional and three-dimensional works. Venture outdoors to be inspired by one of the many outdoor sculptures in the collection, or stop by a public building to take in a painting or small sculpture.

The City, including the Mercer Island Arts Council, collaborates with artists, community organizations, and the public to create high-quality works that will enrich the lives of Islanders and preserve notable creative expression. Many works in the collection have been acquired through the 1% for Art in Public Places Fund, which is funding set aside from public construction projects, as well as through public donations. 

 

 
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Two cutout steel figures stand at the gateway to Mercer Island, welcoming visitors to the Island.

Public Art Restoration: Gateway Figures by Garth Edwards

In October 2025, the Gateway installation featured at 77th Avenue SE and Sunset Highway was damaged during a vehicle collision. The City is preparing a restoration plan for the concrete wall and Gateway Figures by artist Garth Edwards now. Stay tuned for more updates about this public art restoration project in early 2026. 

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The cover for the 6-Year Work Plan for Art in Public Places shows two community members walking around The Source earthwork.

6-Year Work Plan for Art in Public Places

On September 16, 2025, the City Council approved the 6-Year Work Plan for Art in Public Places. This internal planning document that includes goals for the City’s public art program; public art opportunities to consider over the 6-year planning horizon; guidance for community engagement and collection management; and, other information to support the Mercer Island public art program. Review the 2025-2030 work plan here, and stay tuned for opportunities to get involved with future public art projects.

 
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A totem-like bird carved from yellow cedar emerges from the forest along a path in a green open space.

Public Art Story Map

Discover all works of art in Mercer Island’s public art collection with our Public Art Story Map! Find an artwork pinned on the map and learn details such as the materials it’s made from and how the City acquired it. Many pins also include links to STQRY, a free mobile platform that connects you to arts and culture in your area. This project expands access to the City’s robust public art collection and provides another avenue to engage community members with arts, culture, and creativity.

 
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A black and white QR code outlined by the phrase Get the story

STQRY Mobile Platform

The City uses STQRY, a mobile community engagement platform, to connect the community with public art and works for sale in the Greta Hackett Outdoor Sculpture Gallery. STQRY is currently under maintenance. Stay tuned for a new and improved version of the platform to roll out in 2026!

 
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