Restoration on Richard C. “Dick” Elliott’s Circle of Light is complete. Explore this page for information about the artwork and how it was restored.
NEW: Celebrate the restoration with ArtsWA at the Central Washington State Fair on September 29! Click here to learn more and RSVP.
Circle of Light uses geometric patterns to encircle the outside edge of the Yakima Valley SunDome roof, in Central Washington. There are twenty-four different panels and patterns. Six of the designs draw inspiration from local, traditional Yakama Native American basketry patterns.
Late artist Richard C. “Dick” Elliott used over 48,000 3-inch industrial highway reflectors to create the detailed patterns. Each reflector catches the Yakima sunshine. Together they create a beautiful monument to light and color. It is the largest piece in the State Art Collection.
Circle of Light has fallen into disrepair in the decades since installation. At least half of the artwork’s 50,000 colorful reflectors have fallen off. The legislature approved the funding for the restoration in 2021.
Burton Construction, Inc. (of Spokane) will manage the removal of the old, decaying reflectors and the installation of their replacements. The work will be overseen by an architectural conservator with Architectural Resources Group (ARG).
The conservator will ensure that the restoration is in keeping with the artist’s vision. They will also make sure that the process complies with The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties, and the Code of Ethics of the American Institute for the Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works (AIC).
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Galleries and exhibits
Project contact: Janae Huber, Collections Manager, Art in Public Places
Email: janae.huber@arts.wa.gov | Phone: 360.252.9975
Media contact: Michael Wallenfels, Communications Manager
Email: michael.wallenfels@arts.wa.gov | 360.252.9980
Explore Elliott’s legacy and learn how the largest piece in the State Art Collection was restored in this TVW ‘Field Report’.
On July 25, ArtsWA gathered with the restoration partners, elected officials, and others to celebrate the completed restoration of Dick Elliott’s Circle of Light. Watch the full coverage from TVW below.
