Specials & Video Shorts

Look up into the trees at City Hall Park to see a Seattle Parks and Recreation installation of prayer paddles created by Tulalip Tribe artist Ty Juvinel. The paddles honor the Coast Salish people, a group Juvinel says is often underrepresented in the region’s cultural landmarks.

Arranged according to the medicine wheel, the paddles symbolize healing, spiritual guidance, and protection across four directions—north, south, east, and west—as well as up and down. The red and black colors reflect the traditional hues used by many local tribes. Although the paddles are subtly placed in the trees, Juvinel hopes visitors will feel their energy as they pass by.

The paddles will remain on display at City Hall Park through Jan. 17, 2025.