Call for City of Bothell Downtown District Artist Roster

About Downtown Bothell

The City of Bothell, in partnership with the Downtown District business community, is investing in temporary public art to create a more unified, inviting experience throughout downtown and surrounding areas. This effort is part of a broader place-based strategy to strengthen identity, increase foot traffic, and support small businesses through creative activation.

Downtown Bothell is a growing hub of locally owned businesses working together to create a welcoming, neighborly place for residents and visitors. More than a commercial center, it’s a place rooted in hospitality, shared history, and a strong collaborative business community coming together to create a “Welcome Home” destination. A place where people feel invited for a day or a lifetime. This includes a commitment to reflecting the diversity of current and future residents, workers, and students.

The Downtown District is growing and welcoming new businesses beyond Main Street and the community from the University of Washington campus in Bothell, collaborating to create a destination where, no matter who you are or where you come from, Bothell is everyone's hometown.

The Downtown business community highlights a strong connection to the natural environment and local narratives, including the Sammamish River, native wildlife, farmland history, and the Bothell Landing pedestrian Bridge.

Downtown Bothell blends small-town charm with urban growth, where farm-town roots meet new development. This generational business community centers on stewardship and collaboration, with legacy businesses and new entrepreneurs supporting one another. In an increasingly diverse community, events and markets bring neighbors together in celebration. The business community is investing in visual art opportunities that will continue to express the informal and inviting character of the Downtown District and surrounding area while strengthening a sense of inclusion and belonging for residents and visitors alike. Artists are encouraged to interpret these themes broadly and creatively to create public art as cultural expression, engages the public and supports economic development.

Key Characteristics Include

• A collaborative, generational business community.
• Strong ties to nature, including the Sammamish River and local symbols like crows roosting, the Bothell Landing bridge, and more.
• A welcoming, inclusive “come as you are” culture.
• A spirit of mutual support and celebration among businesses.
• A growing, mixed-use district with expanding boundaries beyond Main Street.
• A commitment to cultural representation, storytelling, and community visibility.

Purpose of the Artwork

The City and Downtown Business District seek artwork that:

• Reflects Bothell’s identity, history, and diverse community.
• Highlights local people, cultures, and businesses.
• Creates interactive experiences that invite people to explore and linger.
• Strengthens downtown as a community-centered destination.
• Supports wayfinding, discovery, and a sense of cohesion across downtown, encouraging repeat visits.

Public Art to Enhance

• Walkability and draw foot traffic beyond Main Street including the University of WA Bothell campus.
• Connect historic roots with an emerging modern identity.
• Reflect local cultures and the natural environment.
• Expand perceptions of what “downtown” includes.
• Activate underutilized or transitional spaces.