Beads Along a Thread
Streetcar stop, Occidental Avenue S and S Jackson Street
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Beads Along a Thread
Streetcar stop, Occidental Avenue S and S Jackson Street
Beads Along a Thread: Beaded Poles, Loop Stitch Bollards, Eye of the Needle Poles by Claudia Fitch (2014)
Flanking the First Hill Streetcar stop at this location are two spun aluminum poles covered in a Tnemec protective coating. You might initially mistake these metallic forms for light or power poles, but, at close inspection, the poles taper as they get higher, almost like sewing needles, and are each encircled by four cylindrical aluminum beads. These structures are the beginning of a public artwork — Beads Along a Thread: Beaded Poles, Loop Stitch Bollards, Eye of the Needle Poles — by artist Claudia Fitch (b. 1952) that extends for two and a half miles along the streetcar line terminating in the Capitol Hill neighborhood.
The artist worked with Seattle Department of Transportation staff and First Hill Streetcar project designers to develop site-integrated artwork along the entire line. Fitch focused on the power lines for the streetcar system, viewing them as a continuous wire that like thread, linked neighborhoods together. Along the path, Fitch created works inspired by sewing, beadwork, and needlework. Each work is its own unique beaded-pole structure reflective of the neighborhood. Although this particular walking tour stays in the Pioneer Square neighborhood, you are encouraged to ride the streetcar up the line and experience the other pole-based works by Fitch.
Turn back around to the north and walk back through Occidental Park for two blocks, crossing over S Main Street. As you walk through the park you will encounter other art that is not part of the City’s collection, but you are encouraged to explore it at your own pace. Our tour ends at the north end of the park, on the west side, just before it meets S Washington Street. Look for the two totem poles in a triangular planting bed.
