This month, Tacoma Venues & Events (TVE) is unveiling a traditional Salish Coast mural along the Tacoma Dome’s south exterior Exhibition Hall. This public art project, in partnership with the Puyallup Tribe of Indians and in consultation with the City of Tacoma’s Arts and Cultural Vitality division, originated with the intent to create highly visible, impactful artwork that serves as a welcoming landmark, honoring and amplifying the cultural presence and stories of the Puyallup Tribe.
“The Tacoma Dome has always been where people come together, and it is important that this iconic gathering place more visibly reflect the history and enduring presence of the Puyallup People on whose traditional lands it stands,” said TVE Director Adam Cook. “We are grateful for our partnership with the Puyallup Tribe and for the opportunity to provide a prominent space to share their story. This mural is one step toward recognizing the powerful connection between the Puyallup People, the Tacoma Dome, the land, and the community we serve.”
After a competitive application process beginning in summer 2025, Puyallup Tribal member and Coast Salish artist Anthony Duenas was selected by the Puyallup Tribe’s Heritage Division to lead the “brush” in this effort.
Blending traditional Coast Salish symbolism and sacred storytelling with urban art, Duenas’ craft engages viewers from all walks of life.
“I believe public art should speak to its land, its people, and its roots,” said Duenas. “The opportunity to contribute to the Tacoma Dome allows me to honor my local heritage while opening space for new dialogue, reflection, and connection.”
The mural is titled “x̌ əčulb,” pronounced hutch-ulb, which in Lushootseed means to tell the story of one’s lineage. The art depicts a young person seeing their lineage ahead and an elder looking in the direction of the mountain and the youth, symbolizing the future. In the center of the mural, a thunderbird takes flight over two people as they canoe toward the observer, symbolizing past, present, and the continuous journey forward.“This is not only a project, it’s a lifelong dream and a deep responsibility,” Duenas continued. “I am delighted to bring this vision to life and contribute to the enduring legacy of the Tacoma Dome and my people.”
As a gathering site for hundreds of thousands of visitors who attend events year-round, this artwork helps share the story of the Tacoma Dome, the community, and the traditional lands of the Puyallup People as visitors are welcomed to Tacoma.
www.tacomadome.org/news/detail/tacoma-dome-unveils-salish-mural