Orcas are more than just iconic symbols of the Pacific Northwest...

They’re part of the soul of our peninsula. These intelligent, graceful creatures share our coastal waters and remind us of the profound connection between nature, family, and community.

Imagine strolling through Gateway Park and discovering a breathtaking bronze sculpture rising from the grass—an orca family in motion, their sleek forms capturing the power of nature and the deep bond of family.

Soon, that spirit will come to life through a stunning bronze orca pod sculpture in Gateway Park. Gracefully emerging from the landscape, the scene features a baby orca’s curious head, a powerful tail, and the sweeping dorsal fin and back of a protective parent.More than a work of art, this sculpture will be a gathering place—a landmark where families come together, children play, and moments are captured. It’s a tribute to our wild neighbors, a symbol of the beauty that surrounds us, and a reflection of the unity we share.

Artist rendition

Help Us Create Something Truly Special

Join us in celebrating the connection between nature, family, and community through your generous donations.

With your support, we can make this vision a reality. Your donation will help create a lasting legacy—one that celebrates the strength of family, the wonder of nature, and the pride that binds our community for generations to come.

Create a Lasting Legacy

Your donation will help create a lasting legacy—one that celebrates the strength of family, the wonder of nature, and the pride that binds our community for generations to come.

More Than a Work of Art

The sculpture is a tribute to our wild neighbors, a symbol of the beauty that surrounds us, and a reflection of the unity we share.

Orcas are more than just iconic symbols of the Pacific Northwest—they’re part of the soul of our peninsula.

Spirit of the Orcas

An Exciting Public Art Project

A unique bronze installation will bring the spirit of the Pacific Northwest’s iconic orcas to life. Three sculpted orcas—a baby’s head, one parent’s tail, and another parent’s dorsal fin and back—will appear to breach through the park’s grassy landscape, creating a dynamic and immersive scene.

These majestic marine mammals, found in the nearby waters around the Key Peninsula, symbolize the strength of family bonds and the beauty of our local wildlife. As a beloved gathering place for families, Gateway Park is the perfect home for this tribute to both nature and togetherness, reminding visitors of the deep connections that unite us all.

Interaction and Reflection

It will spark dialogue as people explore the installation, read about the artwork, and talk about it with their friends and family. Public art provides an opportunity for reflection as those looking at it consider its meaning and impact.

Youth Engagement and Inspiration

Located near a playground, the statue offers children a tangible and imaginative connection to the natural world. It can serve as a lesson focus for local schools, field trips, and educational programs about wildlife and marine stewardship.

Community Identity and Pride

Public art plays a key role in shaping a community’s identity. The orca statue will become a recognizable symbol for the area—something residents can identify with and take pride in. It provides a welcoming and photogenic point of interest for families, artists, and nature lovers.

Beautification and Public Space Enhancement

The sculpture will enhance the landscape of the park, making it a more attractive and enjoyable space for community gatherings, picnics, and recreation. Its placement helps integrate art into daily life, reinforcing the value of accessible, outdoor cultural experiences.

Tourism and Economic Stimulus

As a visually striking roadside attraction, the sculpture may draw visitors to the Key Peninsula who might not have otherwise explored the area. Increased traffic can benefit local businesses, artisan markets, and community events, supporting the rural economy and helping to put the Key Peninsula on the map as a destination.

About the Art

This art installation will be made of bronze and consist of three separate pieces; their bases sunk so that the bronze orcas will appear to be breaching the grass. The three pieces consist of a baby orca head, one parent’s tail, and another parent’s dorsal fin and back. The pieces will be about waist-high and the longest piece will measure 10’ in length.

About the Artist

Paul R. Michaels is a distinguished sculptor specializing in life-size bronze figures, busts, and historic plaques. His artistic journey began in 1992 with the carving and restoration of custom carousel figures. His passion for history and art led him to collaborate with the Tacoma Historical Society, designing plaques that commemorate the city's historic sawmills and other significant landmarks. Michaels' work is characterized by a commitment to capturing both the likeness and the essence of his subjects, resulting in pieces that resonate deeply with viewers. A member of the Sammish tribe, Mr. Michaels is a Key Peninsula resident.

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Reach out to us to support orca conservation and strengthen our bonds with nature, family, and the community. Your voice matters!

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