A temporary exhibition of outdoor sculptures by Mexican artist Sebastián is on display through August 2010 in downtown Bellingham. This world class exhibit and significant tourism attraction - on loan to Bellingham by the artist himself - is made possible by public/private partnerships, extensive volunteer efforts and a state tourism grant.
Fourteen Sebastián sculptures are installed outdoors in an easy walking tour of Bellingham's downtown cultural district, along streets near the Mount Baker Theatre, Whatcom Museum campus and on the grounds of the Bellingham Public Library and Bellingham City Hall.
Walking tour maps of the sculpture locations (PDF) are available on-line and at various locations downtown.
Sebastián (Enrique Carbajal "Sebastián") is one of Mexico's most prominent artists, with some 150 monumental pieces placed in cities around the world, from Buenos Aires to New York City to Osaka. One of his pieces, titled "Lipchitziana", is owned by the City for display in Bellingham at Big Rock Garden Park.
Hosting an exhibit of this magnitude is expected to be a significant tourism draw for our community as well as promote cultural arts and international good will. The exhibit was planned to coincide with the 2010 Olympic Games in Vancouver BC and with regional and national celebrations of Mexico's Bicentennial of Independence in 2010.
Primary project sponsors are the Sebastián in Bellingham Project, Allied Arts of Whatcom County and the City of Bellingham, which is contributing staff to coordinate the exhibit and install the sculptures but providing no direct funding. The project also is supported by a $25,000 grant from the Washington State Tourism Department.
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Updated: Jul 22, 2010
