Welcoming the “Gateway Canopy” to Edmonds
Artist rendering of proposed sculpture.
The Edmonds Arts Festival Foundation Plays a Key Role in Bringing a New Landmark to Creative District of Edmonds
The Edmonds Arts Festival Foundation is proud to be part of an exciting new public art project that will soon greet visitors arriving in downtown Edmonds. As part of the Edmonds Creative District’s ongoing efforts to celebrate and highlight creativity in our community, a new three-dimensional, site-specific artwork is being developed for Anway Park, located next to the Washington State Department of Transportation ferry holding lanes.
Thanks to funding from an ArtsWA Capital Grant, matched by the Edmonds Arts Festival Foundation, this project will serve as a vibrant and welcoming feature for both residents and visitors, a visual reminder that Edmonds is truly a city powered by the arts.
The Artist and the Vision
After reviewing proposals from an impressive field of 21 applicants, the project’s selection panel — which included representatives from the Creative District Advisory Committee, Edmonds Arts Commission, Edmonds Arts Festival Foundation, City Council, and a local arts professional — chose Bay Area artist Sean Orlando of Engineered Artworks to bring his vision to life.
Sean’s design, titled “Gateway Canopy,” captures the spirit of Edmonds: creative, coastal, and ever-evolving. The asymmetrical, curving sculpture features dynamic steel ribs that seem to rise organically from the ground, forming a canopy that invites viewers to pause, look up, and experience a sense of connection and movement.
A New Symbol of Welcome
When installed the Gateway Canopy will serve as a beacon at the entrance to our Creative District, greeting ferry passengers and visitors as they arrive in Edmonds. It’s not just a sculpture, it’s a symbol of the energy and imagination that define our community.
As supporters of public art and arts education throughout Edmonds, the Foundation is honored to help make this vision a reality. Collaborations like this one highlight the power of partnerships between local organizations, artists, and the community to create lasting beauty in shared spaces.
Stay tuned as we share updates on the installation process and celebrate the unveiling of the Gateway Canopy, a stunning new landmark that will welcome all who come to experience the arts in Edmonds.
Installation is currently delayed due to sourcing issues with materials. We will keep this page updated!