Title
Review and Recommendation of the 2026 Percival Plinth Project Peoples’ Choice Award
Recommended Action
Move to review outcome of the public vote and recommend to City Council the sculpture from the 2026 Percival Plinth Project exhibition for City purchase for the public art collection.
Report
Issue:
Whether to make a recommendation for sculpture purchase to City Council.
Staff Contact:
Stephanie Johnson, Arts Program Manager, Parks, Arts & Recreation, 360.709.2678
Presenter(s):
Stephanie Johnson, Arts Program Manager
Background and Analysis:
Annually, the first month of the Percival Plinth Project is dedicated to a public vote to determine the winner of the Peoples’ Choice Award, which is a purchase prize.
The vote took place July 1-31, through the platform Ranked Vote.
Ms. Johnson will share the results of the vote at the Art Commission meeting.
Climate Analysis:
While the project does not directly impact climate strategies, having sculptures displayed on Percival Landing encourages use of active forms of travel such as walking along the waterfront. Artwork in public spaces promotes safe and welcoming public spaces and a walkable city.
Equity Analysis:
Multiple strategies of the project are intended to shift traditional power dynamics of how art is accessed and selected at its core an outdoor public art exhibit is designed to be accessible to the whole community year-round. The People’s Choice Award is designed to share decision-making power by including a community vote as a key determining factor of the final purchase award.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
Public input is solicited through banners, press releases and online votes. Fliers encourage visitors without internet access to utilize computers available at the Olympia Timberland Library.
Financial Impact:
Up to $10,000 from the Municipal Art Fund
Options:
1. Review the results of the public vote and make a recommendation for a sculpture purchase to City Council for approval.
2. Make a different recommendation to City Council for approval.
3. Do not make a recommendation to City Council.
Attachments:
Percival Plinth Project Webpage