Artwork copyright Elizabeth Conner. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2025.
Artwork copyright Elizabeth Conner. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2025.
Artwork copyright Elizabeth Conner. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2025.
Artwork copyright Elizabeth Conner. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2025.
Artwork copyright Elizabeth Conner. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2025.
Artwork copyright Elizabeth Conner. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2025.
Artwork copyright Elizabeth Conner. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2025.
Navigations, 2024
Elizabeth Conner
American (born 1950)
Location: Department of Transportation - Colman Dock Ferry Terminal, Seattle
About the Artwork
Navigations by Elizabeth Conner uses resin spheres to explore how people over time have navigated across water, as well as how ferry riders would move along the walkway to or from their ferry. The 450 resin spheres are mounted in different patterns on the metal guardrail panels. The patterns suggest many things, such as: constellations and navigating by the stars; a musical score; the rhythms and speeds of pedestrians, strollers, and suitcases; an abacus for measuring and counting; or ancient ways of telling time. Different hues and diameters suggest relative magnitude of navigational stars within constellations.
This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Department of Transportation - Ferries.
About the Artist
Movement and change are important aspects of Elizabeth Conner's public and studio art practice. Her work explores how we navigate and understand change in our world. It sparks unexpected thoughts and conversations, to reveal new meanings over time.Conner grew up in rural upstate New York. Working in a family-owned lumber yard gave her an appreciation for construction and working with contractors, craftspeople, tools, and heavy equipment. She studied French at the Université de Paris Sorbonne in France before earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree (1986) at Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle and a Master of Fine Arts degree (2005) at Vermont College of Fine Art. She has lived and maintained a studio on Puget Sound since 1986.
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