Seattle Tulip Sculpture Installed at University’s Union Green

Seattle University has welcomed the installation of the Seattle Tulip sculpture, a vibrant piece of art that has a rich history in the city. The sculpture, which was originally commissioned in 1988 by Wright Runstad & Company for their building at 999 Third Avenue, was installed on the Union Green during the week of February 9, 2026. This addition follows the arrival of the historic F.X. McRory clock in the fall of 2025, further integrating elements of Seattle’s past into the campus environment.

The Seattle Tulip has been a prominent feature in downtown Seattle for over three decades before it was removed in 2019 to accommodate building renovations. After being in storage for several years, the sculpture was donated and financed for installation by the building’s owners and a group known as Friends of the Tulip. Colleen Duffy, the senior property manager at Perform Properties, expressed the desire to find a new home for the sculpture, stating, “Since the sculpture had been in storage for so long and there were no plans to bring it back, we wanted to find somewhere where it could be enjoyed again.”

Artistic Legacy of Tom Wesselmann

Tom Wesselmann, the artist behind the Seattle Tulip, was an influential figure in the Pop Art movement. Known for his bold and innovative approach, Wesselmann gained prominence in the late 1950s with his series of paintings and collages that challenged traditional art forms. Although less recognized than contemporaries like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein, Wesselmann’s work reflected the cultural shifts of post-World War II America.

His work often utilized elements from popular culture, including advertisements and billboards, to create pieces that resonated with the American experience. Kenneth Allan, an associate professor in the Visual Arts department at Seattle University, remarked, “They were all trying to speak to the zeitgeist of a post-war America.” Wesselmann’s series, particularly the Great American Nudes, showcased women’s bodies and explored themes relevant to a changing social climate, further solidifying his place in art history.

By the time Wesselmann was commissioned for the Seattle Tulip in 1988, he had transitioned to creating sculptural works, favoring materials such as steel and wood. His artistic journey continued until his death in 2004, leaving behind a legacy that resonates with both art enthusiasts and the general public.

Installation Process and Community Impact

The installation of the Seattle Tulip was a collaborative effort involving Seattle University’s art department, construction workers, and facilities teams. According to Fr. Josef Venker, the university’s curator, the entire process spanned nearly two years. Once the location was determined, preparations included installing a foundation, cleaning, and repainting the sculpture’s five components.

On February 2026, the freshly prepared tulip pieces were transported to the campus, where a crane and construction team worked diligently to install them. Despite a setback on the final piece, which required reshaping due to bending in storage, the installation was successfully completed over four days. Venker noted, “On the third day, they were ready to install the flower, but the metal had bent after so long in storage. They had to spend a whole day bending it back into shape.”

Now positioned proudly at the southwest corner of Union Green, the Seattle Tulip adds a splash of color and creativity to the campus landscape. A dedication ceremony is scheduled for March 5, 2026, at Pigott Auditorium, officially marking the installation of this beloved sculpture. Duffy expressed hope that the tulip will bring joy to the university community, stating, “We hope it can bring some joy to Seattle University’s campus.”

With its installation, the Seattle Tulip not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the university but also serves as a reminder of the city’s artistic heritage and the ongoing dialogue between past and present.