Whether you're walking through Riverfront Park, heading to the Yards for brunch, or driving down Division Street, Harold Balazs' legacy can be seen on almost every corner of Spokane. There are too many to count, but here are some of Balaz's notable pieces of art – in different media – that you can see in the wild.
Alice in Wonderland enamel figures
Spokane Valley Library, 22 Herald Road
These statues were originally installed in the children's room of the New Valley Branch of the Spokane County Rural Library in 1955. They remained on display until 1979, and after more than 20 years in storage, they were reinstalled on the mezzanine floor of the New Spokane Valley Library. .
Hennessy Funeral Home and Crematory
2203 n. Street section.
Tree of life design on the facade of the building facing the street.
“He listens”
Spokane Radio Public Square, 1229 N. Monroe Street.
Designed to look like an ear, this sculpture is located in front of the Spokane Public Radio Building. In 2016, during the courtyard's dedication ceremony, Spokane Symphony percussionists Bryan Bogue, Paul Raymond and Adam Wallstein played the statue as an instrument.
Carved brick wall
Wall Street Crosswalk, at 222 N. Wall Street.
It's easy to miss this prominent statue carved into the side of the Wheatland Bank Building the first time, but once you see it, you'll never pass by in ignorance again.
“Untitled” (Lantern)
On the north, river side of the First Center for the Arts
Tower built of concrete. The top of the statue houses Balázs's painting “Transcending Nonsense.”
“Birds of the Northwest” and “Wildflowers of the Northwest”
Lincoln Building, 818 W. Riverside Street.
These two enamel pieces on the facade of the Lincoln Building in downtown Spokane are very colorful, juxtaposing Balazs's monochromatic sculptures.
Centenary sculpture
River Park, on the Spokane River, south of the clock tower
This statue was made in 1978 and was dedicated to the city of Spokane in 1981 to commemorate its 100th anniversary. At the time of its installation, it was one of the largest floating statues in the world.
“explore”
Lewis and Clark High School, southwest of the old school building
A metal sculpture designed to look like a canoe for people to row. The artwork was acquired by the Washington State Art Collection in partnership with Spokane Public Schools.
“Mixed forms”
Kendall Yards, 1248 W. PKWY Summit.
A smaller geometric sculpture located outside the Yards Bruncheon.
Rotating fountain
Riverfront Park, near the intersection of Howard Street and Spokane Falls Road
In collaboration with Bob Perron, Balazs designed the fountain to tell the story of Spokane Falls and its relationship with the indigenous people of the area. ♦
