Gazing through Black Sun, a giant black granite donut, the Space Needle appears perfectly framed. It’s a mesmerizing sight here in Volunteer Park. Black Sun is more than just a photo opportunity. It’s a 1969 sculpture by Isamu Noguchi, a renowned Japanese American artist. His vision was to create a timeless piece that interacted with the sun’s movement, a dialogue between art and nature. The nine-foot diameter circle of Brazilian black granite, with its intriguing hole, stands as a testament to Noguchi’s fascination with circular shapes and outdoor environments. He meticulously shaped the stone to echo the organic forms found in nature. The sculpture’s placement in Volunteer Park offers breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. It’s no wonder people gather here daily, some sitting within the sculpture’s embrace, others capturing that iconic Space Needle photo, and still others simply absorbing the beauty of Seattle. While some speculate that Soundgarden’s “Black Hole Sun” drew inspiration from this sculpture, the connection remains unconfirmed. What is certain is that Black Sun has become a beloved meeting place, a focal point in the vibrant tapestry of Volunteer Park, fulfilling Noguchi’s wish for a place where people connect.
Gas Works Memorial Sundial Sculpture
A giant sundial. That’s what greets you at the top of Kite Hill in Seattle’s Gas Works Park. This isn’t