Mercer Island Arts Council Recommends Art Elements for Luther Burbank Waterfront

On October 25, 2023, the Mercer Island Arts Council voted to recommend the plan for integrated public art elements for the Luther Burbank Park waterfront. The plan centers on the Mercer Island Medallions, 12 unique bronze pieces that highlight the natural and cultural history of Mercer Island, Luther Burbank Park, and the Lake Washington region. Artist Marsha Rollinger worked with City staff, the waterfront design team, and the Mercer Island community to design the medallions during summer 2023. Other coordinated elements include historic plaques and embellishments for the Boiler Building, the waterfront light pole, and a new informational kiosk.

This public art project is funded by the City's 1% for Art in Public Places program and the Washington State Historical Society's Heritage Capital Project grant program. Rollinger was selected to develop the artwork following a competitive artist selection process that took place in early 2023.

The new art elements will be installed in 2025 at the end of construction of the waterfront renovation. Once installed, community members will be able to learn more about the project and individual pieces through STQRY, the City's digital engagement platform for public art. Learn more about Mercer Island's public art collection at www.mercerisland.gov/publicart.