The Market’s giant squid sculpture, designed by artist Pat Wickline, turns 25 on this fall.
Seattle, WA — Pike Place Market invites the community to a day of festivities celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Seattle Squid. On Saturday, October 3, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., festivities will take place to honor the 30-foot copper sculpture and the artist behind it. The free celebration will include a meet-and-greet with Squid artist Pat Wickline, artist demonstrations by Stacey Sterling of Basilic Art, educational activities, and opportunities to discover the story of the Market’s most unique works of public art.
Found floating above the Market’s Economy Atrium, the Seattle Squid has delighted and surprised visitors since its installation in 2001. Tucked away from the busier areas of the Market, the huge copper sculpture becomes an unexpected discovery for those exploring the historic district’s quieter corners. Visitors can enjoy views of the sculpture from all four levels of the Atrium, offering different perspectives on the artistry and design of the iconic artwork.
The creation of the sculpture was particularly visionary for its time, as giant squids had never been photographed alive in their natural habitat when Wickline took on the challenge of immortalizing this elusive sea creature in action. Despite the limited documentation available, Wickline crafted a strikingly realistic interpretation of the giant squid.
For 25 years, the Seattle Squid has embodied the creativity, curiosity, and unexpected discoveries that make Pike Place Market a one-of-a-kind destination. The 25th anniversary celebration offers visitors an opportunity to connect directly with the artist, learn about the sculpture’s creation, and learn the story behind an iconic piece of the Market’s history.
Learn more on the event page.
About Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority
The nine-acre historic district is maintained and operated by the Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority (PDA), a not-for-profit public corporation created by the City of Seattle in 1973. The PDA supports the Market’s remarkable community by increasing farm and food retailing
opportunities, supporting small and marginal businesses, and providing services for low-income individuals. In addition, PDA helps protect the essence of the Market by preserving, rehabilitating and maintaining the buildings within the Market.
Media Contact:
Mya Acosta, Senior PR & Communications Specialist
E: Mya.Acosta@PikePlaceMarket.org
P: (206) 774-5278 ext. 352