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Seattle, Washington / Public art

The Seattle Mural

A massive, 60-foot-long cycloramic wall created by Paul Horiuchi, this designated landmark was commissioned for the 1962 Century 21 Exposition and stands as a historic piece of public art at Seattle Center.

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The Seattle Mural
www.seattlecenter.com, og_image_www.seattlecenter.com

What is The Seattle Mural known for?

The Seattle Mural is a designated landmark and a 60-foot-long cycloramic wall created by artist Paul Horiuchi. When it was commissioned for the 1962 Century 21 Exposition, it was billed as the largest artwork in the Pacific Northwest.

Where is The Seattle Mural located?

It is located at the Seattle Center in Seattle, Washington.

Who created The Seattle Mural and when?

The mural was designed by artist Paul Horiuchi in 1962.

Has the mural been restored?

Yes, a restoration of the mural was completed in 2011.

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 Seattle Mural is a monumental work of public art created by artist Paul Horiuchi. Located within the grounds of the Seattle Center, this piece was specifically commissioned for the 1962 Century 21 Exposition. At the time of its debut, the work was billed as the largest artwork in the Pacific Northwest, marking a significant moment in the region's artistic history. Architecturally, the piece is defined as a 60-foot-long cycloramic wall. This sweeping design allows visitors to experience the art as they move along its length, integrating the work into the civic landscape of the Seattle Center. The mural's scale and unique curvature make it a standout feature of the campus. Recognized for its cultural and historical importance, the Seattle Mural is a designated landmark. To ensure its preservation for future generations, a comprehensive restoration of the mural was completed in 2011, refreshing the colors and surfaces of Horiuchi's original 1962 vision. Today, the mural sits within the Seattle Center, which serves as an active civic, arts, and family gathering place. The surrounding campus is home to more than 30 cultural, educational, and entertainment organizations, placing this landmark in the heart of the city's creative core.

Visitor tips

  • The mural is located outdoors at Seattle Center, making it a great stop regardless of ticket availability for other attractions.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the 60-foot length of the cycloramic wall is best appreciated by strolling along it.
  • Check the Seattle Center calendar of events to see if there are any free public performances happening nearby during your visit.

Nearby context

The mural is situated within the Seattle Center, a major civic and arts hub in the core of the region. This area is a dense cluster of creativity, featuring over 30 different cultural and educational organizations, making the mural part of a larger tapestry of public art and entertainment.

Sources

Evidence and links