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Seattle, Washington / Public art

Fountain of the Northwest

Experience the restored Joshua S. Green, Sr., Fountain by George Tsutakawa, a striking bronze sculpture that blends Japanese-American artistic heritage with the evolving landscape of Seattle's waterfront.

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Where is the Fountain of the Northwest located?

The fountain, also known as the Joshua S. Green, Sr., Fountain, is located on Seattle’s waterfront along Columbia Street.

Who created the Fountain of the Northwest?

The fountain was created by George Tsutakawa.

What is the history of the Fountain of the Northwest?

Originally installed in 1966 at Colman Dock at the Seattle ferry terminal, the fountain has since been restored and reinstalled near its original site along Columbia Street.

What should I check before going?

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

What to know

The Fountain of the Northwest, formally known as the Joshua S. Green, Sr., Fountain, is a masterful creation by artist George Tsutakawa. This bronze metal sculpture serves as a visual narrative of Tsutakawa's unique Japanese-American experience, blending cultural influences into a fluid, public form. Originally installed in 1966 at Colman Dock by the Seattle ferry terminal, the fountain has a long history of serving as a landmark for travelers. After a period of absence, the piece has been meticulously restored and reinstalled to welcome visitors back to the city's edge. Now situated along Columbia Street, the fountain occupies a position near its original 1966 site. It stands as a centerpiece within the evolving landscape of Waterfront Park, where it continues to bridge the gap between the city's mid-century art history and its modern urban redevelopment. Tsutakawa's influence on the city extends beyond this site; he also designed the Fountain of Wisdom, which is located beside the Seattle Public Library Central branch. Together, these works highlight his commitment to integrating water and metal in the public sphere.

Visitor tips

  • Walk along Columbia Street to find the fountain in its newly restored location.
  • Compare this work to Tsutakawa's other local installations to see his consistent style.
  • Visit during the day to appreciate how the light interacts with the bronze surfaces.

Nearby context

Located within the evolving Waterfront Park, this fountain is situated along Columbia Street. It serves as a cultural anchor for the shoreline, connecting the modern promenade to the historical legacy of the Colman Dock area.

Sources

Evidence and links