PAC’s 2016 project “Tribute Baskets” by Portland artist Christine Clark exemplifies all the benefits of public art. Located just off the ferry in Waypoint Park, the sculptures represent four cultures (Suquamish, Japanese, Filipino, and Scandinavian) of historical significance to Bainbridge Island. Clark’s pieces beautify a prominent public space with eye-catching symbols of our community’s living history.

The artist said her vision was “to have the sculptures nestle nicely in the garden-scape of Waypoint… and become residents of the park, quiet observers watching people walk past while subtly holding the island’s rich history, welcoming people home while also greeting newcomers.” A professor and department head at Oregon College of Art and Craft, Clark is an accomplished artist who specializes in curvilinear and volumetric forms. She described her approach to art as “embedding a little bit of history into daily life.” “History is such an important part of who we are, and is often taken for granted,” she said. “It enriches the attitudes of our inhabitants and makes one appreciate where they came from and where they live.”