West Olympia Rotary Club celebrated its 50th anniversary which included the dedication of a remarkable piece of art by Squaxin Tribal artist Taylor Wily Krise. The magnificent 10-foot three-dimensional house pole, titled Life is Water, integrates traditional native motifs, patterns and colors. The compelling installation conveys the life-giving properties of water, reminding us of our essential connection to earth. The artwork helps West Olympia Rotary Club honor the indigenous people, traditions, and culture of Squaxin Island Tribe, while drawing attention to the ongoing need to maintain a healthy ecosystem now and into the future. The club gifted the piece to the City of Olympia.
The celebration was set at Olympia’s West Bay Park, affectionately called Rotary Point Park on the spring solstice. Chairman of the Squaxin Tribe, Kris Peters, expressed gratitude for the shared values of the Rotary with the Tribe. Members of the Squaxin tribe were present to offer a special blessing and participate in a drum circle. Though the land is no longer owned by the Tribe, members still maintain deep connections to the place where their ancestors lived.
Kirse was selected from a pool of skilled artists. “Art is part of who I am. We all have a chance to make a difference,” he says. Krise brings his unique artistic visions and his cultural heritage to his work. The Rotary Club announced a new $2500 educational scholarship in Krise’s name that will be awarded to students pursing native art studies.
Rotary is a global organization with service at its heart. The West Olympia Rotary
members volunteer their time and talents with many local organizations including Community Youth Services, Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity and area schools. The club also raises and spends money on projects that span the globe including water and sanitation projects. Members of the club have fun together, too, sharing meals and social events.
Visitors to Olympia’s West Bay Park can enjoy views onto the port, the Capitol dome, and Olympic peaks. It’s dog friendly and there are picnic tables, a kayak/hand-held boat launch, and restrooms. The park is located at 700 West Bay Drive, Olympia.
West Olympia Rotary https://www.westolympiarotary.org/index.php
by Mary Ellen Psaltis