Piece of Motion, 2022

Yegizaw Michael
(American, born 1968)

Location: Department of Transportation - Olympic Region Maintenance and Administration Facility, Lacey

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Artist Yegizaw Michael's Piece of Motion installation focuses on a collective motion instead of an individual. Michael notes that it "captures the interconnection of nature, space, time, and movement and translates it using wood, metal, and mosaic. The artwork ties these materials together to create balance in an endlessly moving cycle of time." The wood elements connect to life's natural cycles, while the metal represents strength and equity. The contrast of the metal and its organic shapes breathe life and create movement. The mosaic ovals give a burst of color to illustrate diverse communities' unity and vibrant thoughts.

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Department of Transportation.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Yegizaw "Yeggy" Michael creates paintings, sculptures, and public art that ask questions about natural cycles, provide a sense of place, and reflect on the movement of time. His art is a meditation on his life experiences and community, inspired by culture and ancient memories. He notes, "public art needs to reflect the community, the culture, and the people who live in it. It’s not just about beauty – it’s an expression of the moment and the people."

Yeggy Michael is an Ethiopia-born Eritrean artist based in Seattle. He is the art director and a community events organizer for the Delridge Neighborhood Development Association. In 2022, he was honored with a Washington State Governor's Arts and Heritage Award.

ARTWORK DETAILS
MediumWood, mosaic, and aluminum
DimensionsPart A 11 ft x 7 ft 6 in x 1 1/2 in (right side) and Part B 8 ft x 10 ft 3 in x 1 1/2 in (left side) (approximately)
ID NumberWSAC2020.013.00A-B
Acquisition MethodSite responsive commission
Artist LocationWashington, United States
Location Information
AgencyDepartment of Transportation
Artwork LocationDepartment of Transportation - Olympic Region Maintenance and Administration Facility
Administrative building, Central stairwell
WA CountyThurston
PlacementInterior
Site TypeState Agency
Address7407 31st Ave. NE
Lacey, WA 98516
Geo. Coordinates47.075248, -122.781617
Before VisitingSome artworks may be located in areas not accessible to the general public (especially in K-12 public schools). Consider contacting the site prior to a visit to ensure access.
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