Tacoma Dome Unveils Salish Mural

~ Tacoma, WA- On September 16th at 10 a.m., a ribbon cutting ceremony and tribal blessing will be held at the Tacoma Dome's south exterior Exhibition Hall. This event marks the unveiling of a traditional Salish Coast mural, a 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.

The idea for this project originated from the desire to create impactful artwork that would serve as a welcoming landmark while honoring and amplifying the cultural presence and stories of the Puyallup Tribe. According to TVE Director Adam Cook, "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."

After a competitive application process in summer 2025, Puyallup Tribal member and Coast Salish artist Anthony Duenas was selected by the Puyallup Tribe's Heritage Division to lead this effort. Duenas' craft blends traditional Coast Salish symbolism and sacred storytelling with urban art, making it accessible to viewers from all walks of life.

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Duenas shared his vision for the mural, stating "I believe public art should speak to its land, its people, and its roots. 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 titled "x̌əčulb," pronounced hutch-ulb, which means "to tell the story of one's lineage" in Lushootseed. It depicts a young person looking towards their lineage ahead while an elder gazes towards the mountain and youth symbolizing the future. In the center of the mural, a thunderbird takes flight over two people in a canoe representing past, present, and continuous journey forward.

For Duenas, this project is not just a one-time endeavor, but a lifelong dream and a deep responsibility. He expressed his excitement to bring this vision to life and contribute to the enduring legacy of the Tacoma Dome and his people.

As a gathering site for hundreds of thousands of visitors who attend events year-round, this artwork serves as a way to share the story of the Tacoma Dome, the community, and the traditional lands of the Puyallup People. It welcomes visitors to Tacoma and invites them to learn about the rich history and culture of the area.

To celebrate and honor the completion of this important work, the Puyallup Tribe of Indians will host a ribbon cutting ceremony and tribal blessing on September 16th at 10 a.m. on the Tacoma Dome's Northwest Plaza. Community members and media are invited to attend this event. This mural is just one step towards recognizing the powerful connection between the Puyallup People, the Tacoma Dome, the land, and the community it serves.

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