As the state’s first Certified Creative District, Edmonds boasts an ever-growing collection of art hidden in plain sight. We have resources and people devoted to art in all forms—visual, performance, edible, and more. For the purposes of this piece, we’re focusing *mostly* on visual art around the city. 

Did you know the Edmonds Public Art program includes a permanent collection of both two- and three-dimensional works, temporary installations, and special commissions? Yep, art is, actually, all around us. 

Let’s play hide and seek with some of our favorite pieces hidden in plain sight. 

"Eight Paths of Light" artwork by artist Pam Beyette, which features a series of eight lanterns along Highway 99 in Edmonds, WAEdmonds International District Highway 99 Banner Project

If you’ve come or gone from Edmonds, you’ve probably driven or ridden along Highway 99. Stay on the lookout for up to 14 permanent, cut-metal banners that will be installed on the east side of Highway 99, adorning the red overhead light poles. This project from The City of Edmonds Arts Commission builds on the existing "Eight Paths of Light" artwork by artist Pam Beyette, which features a series of eight lanterns. 

"Evening in Paris" by Rodman Miller & Anna Sherman on flower basket poles in Edmonds WA

"Evening in Paris" by Rodman Miller & Anna Sher

Flower Pole Artworks 

You may have noticed the beautiful hanging flower baskets around Downtown Edmonds, but did you know they’re also art pieces? Atop many poles, you’ll find unique sculptural artworks on top of flower basket poles. Plus, you can contribute to The Flower Basket Art Pole Donation program to honor someone special or commemorate an organization with a plaque placed on a pole in their name. To view all the poles, go to the online public art map and click on the Flower Pole tab (there are 29—and counting!).

Frances Anderson Center Indoor Art

At Frances Anderson Center—the hub for longtime festivals like Puget Sound Bird Fest, Write On The Sound, and so much more—you’ll spot everything from stained glass to clay pieces, basket canes, and ongoing rotating pieces. Chances are your explorations will inevitably lead you up to an event at the Frances Anderson Center, so make it even more fun by trying to spot at least five pieces. Find the list and images to help you track them down here.

"Luminous Forest" lights on 4th Ave by Iole Alessandrini in Downtown EdmondsLuminous Forest on 4th Avenue North

We mentioned this piece in a winter wonderland article last year, and it’s so cool that it’s worth mentioning again. Luminous Forest is a jaw-dropping public art installation that illuminates 4th Avenue North. Created by Seattle artist Iole Alessandrini, this beneath-your-feet piece features 177 solar-powered LED lights embedded in the roadway that form a grid pattern.   

While Luminous Forest was originally conceived as a temporary installation, it has become a beloved community fixture, transforming 4th Avenue into a magical, almost bioluminescent space after dark. The lights respond to movement, creating a dynamic and interactive experience for pedestrians and drivers alike. The installation not only enhances the visual appeal of Downtown Edmonds but also serves as a reminder of Edmonds' commitment to public art and innovation. 

Mika’s Song at Civic Playfield

Award-winning composer, musician, and performer Ed Hartman created a unique musical experience for the community with "Mika's Song." Composed specifically for the beautiful tubular bells in Mika's Inclusive Playground at the Edmonds Civic Center Playfield Park, the piece is a celebration of music and inclusivity. Hartman believes musical installations like these offer everyone a chance to connect with music in a welcoming environment and hopes "Mika's Song" inspires creativity and positivity. 

Dedicated to the memory of Mika Zimbalist who lived with cerebral palsy, Mika’s Inclusive Playground opened in June 2023. This special place is designed for children of all abilities to play and interact. Hartman performed "Mika’s Song" live in September 2023. You can learn more about Mika and his love of play and music here.

On The Fence Temporary Installations

Right up the block from the Frances Anderson Center, you’ll find one of the two locations of the City’s On The Fence project. These projects give regional artists the opportunity to create temporary outdoor art installations on two City-owned fences: 2nd Ave & Dayton St. in the Artworks Parking Lot and 700 Main St. by the Frances Anderson Center Playfield. The art highlighted on Edmonds fences creates visual conversation about the Puget Sound community through temporary artworks. Check out past projects here, and keep your eyes peeled for the next.

Two girls looking at a sign near octopus art inlaid in sidewalk on Edmonds waterfrontArt Is, Actually, All Around Us

To be fair, this article barely scratches the surface of all the art around us in Edmonds. Next time you’re here, look out for gorgeous statues on street corners, mosaics built into sidewalks, sailboats in crosswalks, plus more pieces than we can list here. Besides, Edmonds is always adding to its art collection, as it were, so each time you explore will be an entirely new experience. 

If you spot something you like, show us! Tag us on social media: @exploreedmondswa and we’ll reshare all your thumbs-up selfies on our stories. 

Photos by Matt Hulbert