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Seattle, Washington / Public art

Neukom Vivarium

A captivating 80-foot greenhouse installation by Mark Dion that blends sculpture and horticulture, featuring a relocated western hemlock to explore the intersection of art and environmental science.

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Neukom Vivarium
www.seattleartmuseum.org, og_image_www.seattleartmuseum.org

What is the Neukom Vivarium?

The Neukom Vivarium is an 80-foot-long mixed-media greenhouse installation by artist Mark Dion, located at Seattle's Olympic Sculpture Park. It is described as a hybrid of sculpture, architecture, environmental education, and horticulture that connects art and science.

What are the hours for the Neukom Vivarium?

The installation is open on Saturdays and Sundays under volunteer supervision, though hours are subject to change. Access to the room depends on a volunteer staffer being present.

Do I need a reservation to visit?

No, reservations are not required to visit the Neukom Vivarium.

What can I see or do at the installation?

The installation features a western hemlock brought from the Green River Watershed. Visitors can use a chalkboard for lessons on trees and magnifying glasses to examine rot as part of the educational display.

Is it free to visit?

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

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 Neukom Vivarium is a 2006 mixed-media installation created by American artist Mark Dion. Located within Seattle's Olympic Sculpture Park, this 80-foot-long greenhouse structure serves as a hybrid of architecture, sculpture, and environmental education. The Seattle Art Museum describes the work as a bridge connecting art and science through horticulture. At the heart of the installation is a western hemlock tree. This specific tree lived its life in the Green River Watershed before being brought to the Olympic Sculpture Park in 2006 with state permission. The installation allows visitors to observe the natural processes of decay and growth in a controlled environment. To enhance the educational experience, the display includes interactive tools. Visitors can utilize magnifying glasses to closely examine the rot of the wood and a chalkboard used for lessons on trees. This hands-on approach transforms the artwork into a living laboratory for environmental study. The project was specifically commissioned for the park and was made possible through the generosity of several donors. These include the Mark Torrance Foundation, the Seattle Garden Club, the American Express Company, the Committee of 33, and Sally and William Neukom.

Visitor tips

  • Plan your visit for Saturdays or Sundays if you wish to enter the room, as access requires volunteer supervision.
  • Check with park staff upon arrival, as interior hours are subject to change based on volunteer availability.
  • Since the Olympic Sculpture Park is free and open daily from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset, you can view the exterior any time.

Nearby context

The Neukom Vivarium is a key feature of the Olympic Sculpture Park, located at 2901 Western Avenue. The park, which opened in 2007 and was designed by Owen Richards Architects, provides a scenic waterfront setting that complements the environmental themes of Dion's installation.

Sources

Evidence and links