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Seattle, Washington / Public art

Eagle

A monumental 1971 sculpture by Alexander Calder, Eagle stands as a bold, industrial-scale interpretation of a bird of prey, overlooking the Salish Sea from the Olympic Sculpture Park.

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Eagle
www.seattleartmuseum.org, og_image_www.seattleartmuseum.org

What is the Eagle sculpture?

Eagle is a 1971 monumental sculpture by Alexander Calder, created from sheet metal, bolts, and paint. It measures 38'9" × 30'3" × 30'3" and is part of the Seattle Art Museum collection.

Where is Eagle located?

It is located at the Olympic Sculpture Park in Seattle, which is situated at 2901 Western Avenue, Seattle, WA 98121.

Is it free to visit?

Yes, the Olympic Sculpture Park where the sculpture is located is free and open 365 days a year.

What are the hours for visiting?

The park opens 30 minutes before sunrise and closes 30 minutes after sunset.

What is the history of the sculpture?

Created in 1971, the sculpture was erected and dedicated on February 15, 1974. It was later relocated in 2000 after being purchased by the Seattle Art Museum with funding from Jon and Mary Shirley.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Eagle is a monumental public artwork created in 1971 by the renowned artist Alexander Calder. Part of the Seattle Art Museum collection, this striking piece is constructed from sheet metal, bolts, and paint, reflecting an industrial aesthetic. The sculpture's massive scale is evident in its dimensions, measuring 38 feet 9 inches in height and 30 feet 3 inches in both width and depth. Dedicated on February 15, 1974, the sculpture has a storied history of placement within the city. It was relocated in 2000 after the Seattle Art Museum purchased the work with funding provided by Jon and Mary Shirley. Today, it serves as a centerpiece of the Olympic Sculpture Park, where it is displayed alongside other major works like Richard Serra's Wake. Critics describe the piece as a blend of pragmatism and poetry, utilizing an architectural construction to evoke the form of a bird. The curving wings and bold lines create a dynamic presence on the waterfront, making it a focal point for those exploring the park's curated outdoor gallery. Situated at 2901 Western Avenue, the sculpture is accessible to the public year-round. Its position on the waterfront allows visitors to appreciate the interaction between the industrial materials of the sculpture and the natural backdrop of the Salish Sea.

Visitor tips

  • The Olympic Sculpture Park is free and open 365 days a year.
  • Plan your visit for 30 minutes before sunrise or 30 minutes after sunset to experience the park's unique lighting.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as the park is an expansive outdoor gallery.

Nearby context

Eagle is a key feature of the Olympic Sculpture Park, a collection of monumental sculptures on Seattle's waterfront overlooking the Salish Sea, located one mile north of the main Seattle Art Museum.

Sources

Evidence and links