Artists sought for Sound Transit's public art program project roster

With several new public art opportunities, Sound Transit is encouraging artists to apply for the agency's artist roster.

Among the opportunities coming up is the chance for artists to work with architects and engineers in designing major transit facilities, including the Central Link light rail station serving SeaTac International Airport and the Tukwila city center, as well as the recently added Stadium Station, serving Safeco and Qwest fields. Sound Transit's public art program "STart" has developed a roster of approximately 500 qualified artists as a resource to the selection process.

Applications to the roster are accepted on an ongoing basis. Those wishing to be considered for the two light rail stations mentioned above should submit applications no later than April 29.

To apply, submit a letter of interest, resume and up to 20 slides of previous work to STart, 401 S. Jackson St., Seattle, WA 98104-2826. The letter of interest may include a body of work statement, reason for consideration, highlights of applicable experience, and ideas about how the art or process could translate into public art in an outdoor transit facility.

Sound Transit allocates one percent of construction costs, excluding tunneling, to art. Art and designs for agency projects are developed collaboratively through a process involving artists, communities, engineers, architects, landscape architects and staff working together. STart works with local arts commissions and community representatives to select artists appropriate for projects within their jurisdictions.

STart is visible up and down the Puget Sound region. In Tacoma, public art enhances every one of the Tacoma Link light rail stations. Sounder commuter rail stations in Puyallup, Sumner, Auburn and Kent include artworks that reflect the history and culture of those communities. Large-scale sculptures mark the entrances to the DuPont Park-and-Ride and Lynnwood Transit Center/Park-and-Ride. Later this year, the first artwork for the Central Link light rail line will be installed at the future SODO Station at South Lander St.[[In-content Ad]]