Artscapes

Artists activate Tacoma

Spaceworks’ Artscapes program provides support and opportunities to artists in Tacoma and Pierce County. We contract with artists of all abilities to create temporary public art that brings cultural vibrancy and economic strength to our city.  Through murals, window installations, exhibits, public engagement projects, and art residency these opportunities have helped artists develop their artistic voice, and further their careers. Since its inception in 2010, Spaceworks has orchestrated hundreds of temporary Artscapes throughout Tacoma. 

2020 Outstanding Program Award
“Honorable Mention” for the Rapid Mural Program

Western Association of Chamber Executives

Where to View

Downtown Mural Walk

Enjoy murals and hear directly from the artists that created them by taking a virtual guided walking tour through Downtown Tacoma, organized by Spaceworks as part of Downtown On the Go’s Walk Tacoma series. 

Rapid Murals

In response to boarded-up businesses in Tacoma, Spaceworks Tacoma has partnered with local organizations to create a rapid mural response program.

Streetside

Our streetside displays keep commercial districts activated 24/7 with temporary artworks from Pacific Northwest artists. We offer stipends to artists to take on a wide variety of spaces from storefront windows and display cases, to entire sides of buildings and public kiosks!

Featured Artscapes Projects

Uprooted – To Nourish Us All
Patsy Surh O'Connell with Bella Kim & Sun Watkins

The Spaceworks Tacoma Residency was given to Patsy Surh O’Connell who is a member of the Korean American Artists Association of Washington. She recruited KAAAW members Sun Watkins and Bella Kim for her installation work.

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BUILD
Matamatanonofo Porter

“This ‘BUILD’ mural is here to honor you, where you come from, and where you’re going. It is a thank you for all the gifts you’re leaving behind to guide and fuel others who follow.”

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Visible
Peter & Araquin Boome

A permanent mural using both historic and contemporary examples of colors and symbols to illustrate an evolving culture.

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Tools

Mural Cost Calculator

A free tool, developed by Spaceworks Tacoma, to generate a mural cost estimate. In addition, it can be used as a guide for planning and negotiations between all parties.

Apply to Artscapes

Spaceworks organizes a wide variety of visual arts programming which has included murals, window installations, residencies, exhibitions and video art. These programs often arise in response to community needs, are grant based, and in partnership with other public, private, and non-profit groups. To stay informed about our next call-to-artists, subscribe to our newsletter, or follow us on Instagram or Facebook.

Public Art Coordinator Contact

Jasmine Brown, Public Art Coordinator
jasmineb@tacomachamber.org