Perched above Longfellow Creek, a vibrant dragonfly spreads its wings. This is not just any dragonfly. This is the Dragonfly Sculpture, a unique public artwork in West Seattle.
The Dragonfly Sculpture marks the entry to the Longfellow Creek Drainage and Habitat Improvement Project. This project showcases Seattle Public Utilities’ dedication. They focus on drainage control and creek restoration. The Dragonfly Garden and Pavilion serves as an outdoor classroom. It offers environmental stewardship learning opportunities.
Imagine a 16-foot-tall dragonfly. Its oxblood-colored, iridescent body gleams in the sunlight. The artist Lorna Jordan created this dramatic sculpture. It’s a part sculpture, part shelter, and part garden. The sculpture provides a viewpoint toward Longfellow Creek. The creek winds its way south to Westwood Village.
Look down at the terrazzo floor beneath the Dragonfly Sculpture. It mirrors the insect’s shape. The dragonfly’s head creates a welcoming seating area. The 40-foot wingspan extends onto the ground. Expansive gardens complement the sculpture. The planting plan mimics the stained-glass veining of the dragonfly’s wings.
Notice the drought-tolerant plants in the gardens. This planting scheme demonstrates water-wise gardening practices. The Dragonfly Sculpture highlights the environmental health of the area. The presence of dragonflies signifies a healthy ecosystem. This artwork nods to the restoration work along the Longfellow Creek waterway.
The Dragonfly Sculpture comprises curved steel pipes. The wings and body were shop fabricated. Bolted connections allowed for efficient assembly on site. Shotcrete walls and a terrazzo floor offer a place to relax. The public can enjoy the park’s serenity.
Funded by Seattle Public Utilities’ 1% for Art Funds, the Dragonfly Sculpture was completed in 2005. It stands at 28th Avenue Southwest and Southwest Dakota Street. The sculpture’s location is no accident. The location makes the sculpture visible and accessible.
The bronze-red steel dragonfly hovers over the terrazzo seating area. The area overlooks Longfellow Creek. Bent steel pipe veining forms the wings. These wings hover above wing-shaped garden areas.
The Dragonfly Sculpture isn’t merely art. It is a symbol of environmental responsibility. It is a testament to Seattle’s commitment to sustainability. It is a reminder of nature’s delicate balance. The City of Seattle owns this remarkable piece. MLA Engineering provided structural engineering for it.
So, as you stand here before the Dragonfly Sculpture take a moment. Appreciate the art, the engineering, and the message. This dragonfly represents environmental health. It embodies Seattle’s dedication to preserving our natural resources. Let the Dragonfly Sculpture inspire you to be good stewards of our planet.