STart: Sound Transit Art Program

STart enhances the experience of riding transit by thoughtfully integrating original artwork into shared spaces, like station entrances, platforms, plazas, and walkways. Artists create artwork inspired by each location, which can also support accessibility and wayfinding, reflect local cultures, and foster a sense of place. From textured surfaces that assist visually impaired riders to large-scale installations that make stations more recognizable and welcoming, STart projects transform routine travel into an engaging, meaningful experience that connects people to place and community. Sound Transit’s art collection demonstrates its long-term commitment to the communities the agency serves.

STart utilizes one percent of construction budgets (excluding tunneling), as identified in each voter-approved capital initiative, to bring local and nationally recognized artists’ work into stations, transit centers, and facilities.

Every site is different, so our planning starts by asking: What makes this place unique? STart looks at things such as the best viewing angles around the transit facility, its relationship to the surrounding neighborhood, and the cultural or historical significance of the site. STart also works closely with city partners and community members to make sure artworks align with their goals and aspirations. Equity matters too: the STart program intends to reflect the diversity of the region that Sound Transit serves.

STart uses a panel-based selection process for each project, made up of community members and creative leaders who are invested in their neighborhoods, care about good design, and bring unique perspectives to the discussion. These panels might include local artists, city staff, members of the cultural community, and other stakeholders. STart organizes and facilitates the process but does not vote to choose a station’s artist. Our role is to make sure the panel has all the information and support they need to choose the best artist for a given project.

Sound Transit commissions artists through the STart program for permanent and temporary public art opportunities that are incorporated into the transit system Sound Transit is building. Calls for artists are periodically posted on our website and shared through local and national public art networks. We encourage artists of all backgrounds, especially those with connections to the communities we serve, to apply. To stay informed about open calls and upcoming projects, please visit the STart page on the Sound Transit website or sign up for our art opportunities email list here.