Inspired Women Behind Art in Public Spaces
By ELLEN HIATT
In so many of Snohomish County’s communities, women have been the force behind art in public spaces — creating, funding, and advocating for it. We asked a few key players, known for their pivotal role, what art in public spaces means to them.
It’s a real quality of life issue. If you think art is frivolous, then show me a community that is without art and I will show you a community that is dying on the vine.
Economic Development and Communications Manager, City of Snohomish, and former Economic and Cultural Development manager for Snohomish County and Cultural Arts and Marketing Coordinator for the City of Everett.
“I think she would have said that art in public spaces is about the character of the community and having beauty around us. It enhances our quality of life.”
whose mother Natalie Shippen, passed in April 2020, remembered her mother’s commitment to art in public spaces. Natalie Shippen was the City of Edmonds’ first female council member and a tireless supporter of green spaces and art for the public.
“The only thing that survives in this world is our art. Songs, stories passed down, writing, poetry, cave paintings. This is the only way that we record our humanity.”
Director of Advancement, Schack Art Center
Former Cultural Arts & Tourism Manager, City of Everett
“Having traveled a lot, I know the power of art. When you are wandering around in a place, that’s what stands out — the public art.”