Title
Percival Plinth Project Recommendation 2026
Recommended Action
Move to recommend the slate of sculptures recommended by jury to City Council for approval.
Report
Issue:
Whether to move forward the sculptures recommended this year for the Percival Plinth Project.
Staff Contact:
Stephanie Johnson, Arts Program Manager, Parks, Arts & Recreation, 360.709.2678
Presenter(s):
Stephanie Johnson, Arts Program Manager
Background and Analysis:
The jury met on Thursday, January 16 to review 31 submitted sculptures. The jury was comprised of Jonathan Happ, Gallery Director, Childhood's End Gallery, Rene Westbrook, Multimedia artist in sculpture, painting and photography and Katherine Ransom, Olympia Arts Commission.
Ms. Johnson will present the slate of 15 recommended sculptures during the meeting.
The Percival Plinth Project hosts loaned sculpture for an exhibition of one year along Percival Landing. During the month of July, the public is invited to vote for the sculpture they wish for the City to purchase.
Climate Analysis:
Public art projects in the urban landscape can encourage a more walkable community.
Equity Analysis:
Selection of the Percival Plinth Project Peoples’ Choice Award takes place by public vote, open to all members of the community.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
The Percival Plinth Project received 519 votes in 2025.
Options:
1). Approve the slate of sculptures for recommendation to City Council.
2). Make a different recommendation to City Council.
3) Do not make a recommendation to City Council.
Financial Impact:
$42,000 from the Municipal Art Fund includes artist honoraria ($1,000 per sculpture) for loan of their artwork, purchase of the winning sculpture (up to $10,000) by vote, installation support, new pedestal for winning sculpture and community kick-off event.
Attachments:
Percival Plinth Project Webpage