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Seattle, Washington / Public art

West Seattle Mural by various muralists

Explore a collection of eleven historical murals depicting the intriguing past of West Seattle, including its early streetcars and ferry boats, recognized as some of the best in the Northwest.

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West Seattle Mural by various muralists
www.wschamber.com, og_image_www.wschamber.com

What is the West Seattle Mural project known for?

The project consists of eleven works of art by world-famous muralists that depict the intriguing history of West Seattle, including the West Seattle Junction and Morgan Junction areas. Subjects include streetcars, ferry boats, business districts, and the "old swimming hole" that existed before Colman Pool.

Is it free to visit the murals?

Yes, the historical murals are free to view year-round.

When were the murals created?

The historical mural project was commissioned in 1989, with a total of 11 murals painted, dedicated, and unveiled between 1989 and 1993.

Have the murals received any awards?

Yes, the historical murals earned the National Neighborhood of the Year Project in 1992 and are considered some of the best in the Northwest.

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 West Seattle mural project is a significant public art installation commissioned in 1989 to highlight the neighborhood's intriguing past. The original project consisted of eleven murals painted and unveiled between 1989 and 1993, featuring contributions from both American and Canadian artists. These works were promoted by Cruzen with the active support of local residents and business owners who helped generate necessary fundraising. These inspiring works of art are primarily located within the West Seattle Junction, with one mural situated in Morgan Junction. The imagery depicts the history of the people along the Duwamish River and the local area, featuring specific topics such as ferry boats, streetcars, and business districts. One notable piece illustrates "the old swimming hole," a site that existed before the creation of the Colman Pool in Lincoln Park. Due to their quality and historical value, these murals earned the National Neighborhood of the Year Project award in 1992 and are considered among the best in the Northwest. The collection has evolved over time, with a 2018 effort described as a rebirth for the murals. Additionally, individual works like the mural by Bruce Rickett at 4755 Fauntleroy Way SW were updated or relocated as recently as 2016. Beyond the historical series, the neighborhood continues to embrace public art. Artist Desmond Hansen has added to the local landscape by creating portraits on five signal boxes throughout West Seattle. More recently, West Seattle Art Nest and West Seattle Art for Social Justice organized a Black Lives Matter street mural, featuring the phrase painted in colorful tones directly onto the pavement.

Visitor tips

  • The murals are free to view year-round, making this a great stop regardless of your budget.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the eleven historical murals are spread across the West Seattle Junction and Morgan Junction areas.
  • Keep an eye out for the smaller signal box portraits by Desmond Hansen while moving between the larger wall murals.

Nearby context

The murals are integrated into the fabric of the West Seattle Junction and Morgan Junction, turning the commercial districts into an outdoor museum of the neighborhood's evolution from a river-based community to a bustling urban hub.

Sources

Evidence and links