Ballard Gateway Sculpture

Gazing up at the Ballard Gateway Sculpture, one can’t help but feel a sense of arrival. This isn’t just a collection of metal; it’s a portal to Ballard’s vibrant past. The Ballard Gateway Sculpture, installed in 2003, stands proudly at the north end of the Ballard Bridge, between Northwest 49th Street and Ballard Way. This series of eight aluminum sculptures, each ten feet tall, isn’t just art for art’s sake. It’s a community project, a neighborhood effort four years in the making by the Ballard Gateway Committee. The Ballard Gateway Sculpture truly acts as a symbolic entryway into the heart of Ballard. Each piece tells a story, reflecting a different facet of this unique community. Look closely, and you’ll see saw blades, a nod to Ballard’s bustling lumber history. The shimmering blue hues of two other pieces echo traditional Scandinavian designs, a tribute to the area’s rich immigrant heritage. A swirling, net-like structure speaks to the fishing industry that shaped Ballard’s identity. Another evokes the powerful churn of boat propellers, a reminder of its maritime and industrial roots. Nature also finds its place in the Ballard Gateway Sculpture, with designs inspired by local flora and Native American themes. Originally, these pieces were illuminated at night, casting an ethereal glow over the bridge. But a fierce windstorm in February 2006 threatened the sculptures’ stability. Two pieces came loose, prompting the Seattle Department of Transportation to remove all eight for inspection. This caused concern and numerous inquiries from the community, eager for the sculptures’ return. The sculptures weren’t damaged in the storm, but the structural engineer discovered issues with their attachment to the bases. The city, working with the original artists, Tom Askman and Lea Anne Lake, planned the reinstallation. A certified welder reinforced the bases to withstand future storms. The Ballard Gateway Sculpture, currently stored at the Haller Lake maintenance facility, awaits its triumphant return to the Ballard Bridge. It serves as a testament to Ballard’s resilient spirit, its rich history, and its unwavering commitment to public art. The city is determined to reinstall the Ballard Gateway Sculpture in its original location, ensuring it remains a vibrant landmark for generations to come.