For centuries, the Duwamish River has been a cultural anchor for the dxʷdəwʔabš (Duwamish) people. Return on Investment, a collaborative artwork featuring Northwest Coast formline work and illustration by Indigenous artists Tommy Segundo (Haida/Katzie) and Toka Valu (Tongan), showcases Thunderbird – a symbol of balance in the natural world, uniting past, present, and future. The left side of the mural portrays the Duwamish Waterway’s original form – a meandering river abundant with salmon and camas plants. The river was once part of an ecosystem that provided sustenance, as well as a vital corridor for canoe travel. On the right, spawning salmon and a Boeing 747 symbolize life’s cyclical nature and modern modes of transportation. Chief Sealth oversees Seattle from above, accompanied by Sun and Moon. As strong proponents of involving community in their process, Segundo and Valu interviewed numerous residents, business owners, artists, and culture bearers who work and live in close proximity to the project site at the north end of the King County International Airport runway. These interviews had a profound impact on their design, emphasizing widespread interest in returning the Duwamish River Valley to a healthy state.  

The piece reflects a dedication to restoring the Duwamish, drawing wisdom and guidance from the past as we move towards our collective future. It also honors the land’s stewards – the Duwamish, Suquamish, Muckleshoot, Puyallup, Tulalip, and all Coastal Nations. We are still here. - Tommy Segundo and Toka Valu

  Based in Seatac, Valu is an Indigenous Pacific Islander artist and illustrator who is rooted in community with ongoing involvement in south King County. 2023 4Culture Arc Artist fellow, Segundo, recently opened a gallery in downtown Renton, which serves not only as an exhibition venue, but also as a space to teach and learn about Northwest Native art and culture. Return on Investments is their first collaborative public artwork.

About the Location

King County International Airport

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