A weathered skeleton against the Seattle sky. This, my friends, is the Paragon Sculpture. It stands as a testament to a bygone era, a time when the Duwamish River bustled with boatbuilders and fishermen. The Paragon isn’t just a random collection of timbers. It’s a 5/8-scale replica of a halibut schooner, a type of vessel once ubiquitous in these waters. Built in 2003 by artist Donald Fels, the Paragon Sculpture is more than just art. It’s a window into West Seattle’s rich maritime history. The sculpture’s creation was a community effort, involving the Port of Seattle, the City of Seattle, the Center for Wooden Boats, and even members of the local Croatian community. The original Paragon, the fishing vessel that inspired this artwork, was designed in 1923 by Ingvald Heggem. Imagine the bustling shipyards along the Duwamish, the clang of hammers, the scent of fresh-cut wood. This area was once a hub for boatbuilding, with immigrants from Yugoslavia, Greece, and Italy contributing their skills and traditions. Sadly, the city neglected the Paragon Sculpture, leading to rot and carpenter ant infestations. But the community rallied to its rescue. Don Fels, the artist, spearheaded a restoration effort, garnering support from various organizations including the Duwamish Tribe. The Paragon Sculpture now stands as a symbol of resilience, a reminder of a vibrant past and a testament to the power of community.
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