Squaxin Island artist unveils plans for new welcome figure in downtown Olympia

Andrea Wilbur-Sigo, a prominent artist from the Squaxin Island Tribe, is planning to create a new welcome figure to be placed near the Deschutes Estuary in Olympia, emphasizing her commitment to environmental stewardship and cultural unity. This initiative is part of a five-year accord between the city and the tribe, aimed at enhancing public art and facilitating cultural exchanges. Her previous work, 'Steh-Chass Man,' stands at Budd Inlet, reflecting the tribe's values through its design and symbolism. The new sculpture will depict an anatomically correct female figure adorned with regalia representing the tribe's heritage, including carvings of salmon and kelp on her skirt, highlighting the tribe's habitat restoration efforts. Wilbur-Sigo's artistic vision seeks to normalize anatomical correctness in public art.

The City Council is expected to review her proposal on December 10, marking a significant step in advancing public art initiatives in the area. This project aims not only to beautify downtown Olympia but also to serve as a reminder of the Squaxin people's rich cultural heritage and ongoing environmental efforts, with the community eagerly anticipating the addition of this new welcome figure to the local landscape.