Public art unites. It beautifies. It tells stories and builds common ground. We believe that art is of great value to the community, and we invest in art throughout the community.
From simple signal box wraps to large-scale sculptures and murals, public art takes many shapes and sizes. All of our diverse pieces share one purpose: to make you proud to live in Lakewood. The Lakewood Arts Commission makes recommendations to City Council about the installation of art.
Art Receptions
Lakewood honors local artists by hosting artist receptions at City Hall. For each event, artists hang their artwork at City Hall for a limited time. Then, we host the public on a special reception night to meet the artists, enjoy light snacks, and admire the art. Join us at the next event.
Upcoming Receptions
“Culture Clash: Art Edition“
Date: April 7, 2025
Time: 5-7 p.m.
Location: Lakewood City Hall, 6000 Main Street SW
This one-of-a-kind artist reception will feature works of local artists ranging in age from 8 to 80 years old who are part of the Hwa Sil Studio. Main artist Kellis Parlett is from Seoul, South Korea. She has dedicated her life to the exploration and creation of modern and traditional art forms. Her work reflects her desire to seek hidden, overlooked locations and transform them into artistic experiences. She redefines the boundaries of where and how art can exist.
Local musician Hyewon Kim will perform three pieces as part of the event. Her performances complement and co-mingle with the art on display. Kim is also from South Korea and holds a master’s degree in music, specializing in voice performance and choral conducting.
While there, enjoy traditional Korean refreshments including Korean moon bread, Korean snacks, herb cakes and traditional Korean drinks and teas. Local Korean Grocery Association and Boo Han Market are providing the culinary items for the event.
About the Artist: Kellis Parlett studied integrated art at Kaywon University of Art and Design and studied art and design at Hongik University, mastering a multi-disciplinary approach that harmonizes visual art with music, dance, photography, poetry and curation.
Can’t make the reception? The art will be on display from April 1 through June 30 at Lakewood City Hall. It is viewable to all Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Past Art Receptions
2024
“Souls & Stories” Laurie Davenport and Sylví Estrella
Laurie featured the beautiful art she created, inspired by the people she sees in her community and beyond. Sylví showed portraits of extraordinary people along with a story from them or about them.
Pierce College Collection
In April faculty members of Pierce College displayed artwork, showcasing differing artistic styles and mediums.
Ron Snowden
In March local artist Ron Snowden showcased his art at Lakewood City Hall. Snowden has been painting watercolors for many years and enjoys time spent painting and teaching art. He is a member of the American Watercolor Society and a Signature Member of The Northwest Watercolor Society and has participated in many classes and workshops taught by artists whose work he admires, including watercolorists Alvaro Castagnet, Mary Gibbs, Stan Miller, Joe Garcia, Iain Stewart, Eric Wiegardt, Bev Jozwiak and Ron Stocke.
Signal Box Wraps
Large utility boxes are located next to traffic lights at many Lakewood intersections. While you’re stuck at a red light, why not enjoy a more pleasant view?
The City is sprucing up a series of boxes, fitting them with unique wraps made by local artists.
Public Art Projects
Colonial Plaza Gateway Arch
Colonial Plaza was renovated in 2019 to become a community centerpiece. On top of the cobbled street and classic architecture, sits a welcoming metallic gateway arc.
Metal strands etched with phrases from residents and community groups are entwined within the piece.
The sweeping steel arcs sit on the Gravelly Lake Drive entrance to Motor Avenue, inviting visitors to one of Lakewood’s community gathering places. Made from inch-thick curved steel plates, the pieces form a gateway. The larger stretches 50 feet wide and the smaller 34 feet. Both rise about 4 feet from the ground.
Aluminum “story strips” are found within the arc, each etched with quotes and memories gathered from the community. In Spring 2022, the city gathered phrases, quotes, and stories about life in Lakewood to include in the piece.
When walking Motor Avenue, people can read these stories and memories up close. From the street, the aluminum strips reflect a luminous glow through triangular cutouts.
The artwork was installed Jan. 25, 2023.
The Lotus Blossom
Designed and produced by artist Karsten Boysen, the Lotus Blossom was commissioned by the Lakewood City Council and the Lakewood Arts Commission in 2017.
Gallery
