When the 1 Line opens to Federal Way on Dec. 6, riders will be greeted not just by new stations — but by vibrant, community-inspired public art that celebrates the spirit, history, and diversity of South King County.
From Federal Way’s gleaming glass artworks to Kent’s cultural mosaics and Star Lake’s colorful panels, each station tells a story — one that connects riders to the people and places that make our region unique.
The goal of the Sound Transit art program (STart) was to create places within the transit facilities that reflect the communities surrounding them and their values, and provide them with a sense of belonging.
The artists for the three stations and garages were selected by a panel made up of representatives from the City of Federal Way Arts Commission, community members, and artists.
Also instrumental to this project is artist-in-residence Sarah Kavage, who spent months in South King County connecting with community members.
Her research resulted in a cultural resource map and report, which informed the artists who were later selected in the development of their designs. The residency also resulted in multiple temporary mural programs, The Roadhouse, as well as a tactile artwork still in development.
Federal Way Downtown Station: A celebration of light and legacy
Art and architecture come together in dynamic ways at Federal Way Downtown Station, home to a mix of relocated favorites and brand-new installations.
“Hi-Five” by Miles Pepper has been given new life in the passenger drop-off area. Once a familiar sight near Interstate 5, the sculpture’s kinetic form now greets travelers as they arrive at the station.
“Prismatic” by Catherine Widgery transforms the station’s interior into a glowing space of color and reflection, accentuating its height and rhythm while shifting with natural light throughout the day.
“Leafy Wader” — an anagram of “Federal Way” — by Donald Lipski is a two-story-tall desk lamp that serves as a playful and welcoming beacon. It also nods to the region’s history as a center for American glass art.
Christine Nguyen’s mural “A Sound to Mountain” stretches across the west side of the parking garage. Inspired by the natural resources in Federal Way, it connects sea and sky through flowing color and organic form.
Clark Wiegman’s stainless steel and mosaic “light grove”, a reimagined work from the original Federal Way Transit Center, now enhances the new plaza with texture and color.
Star Lake Station: Where nature and community meet
At Star Lake Station, nature and connection inspire the art — with works that reflect Kent’s agricultural past and the vibrant diversity of its present.
Artists Tory and Eroyn Franklin designed ceramic frit glass panels featuring edible plants and local flora, turning the platform into a living gallery of growth and renewal.
Their companion piece, “Pollination,” fills the breezeway with soft, backlit imagery inspired by microscopic pollen — a reminder that even the smallest connections can lead to something beautiful.
Kent Des Moines Station: Stories of connection and heritage
The art at Kent Des Moines Station centers on themes of cultural diversity, interconnection, and family — drawing on the lived experiences of the community.
RE:site Studio’s “Cambium” is integrated into the station’s glass. Its arching design, inspired by tree rings and branches, features patterns created in collaboration with local artists and celebrates how multicultural roots strengthen Kent and Des Moines.
Michelle de la Vega’s sculpture, located near the garage entry, draws from family trees contributed by Kent residents, weaving them into a latticework shaped like a home — a fitting metaphor for belonging.
Coming soon: Art still in the making
While most station art will be complete when trains begin running Dec. 6, a few pieces will join the collection in 2026 — ensuring the art program continues to evolve alongside the 1 Line itself.
Tactile mosaic artwork – Kent Des Moines Station plaza (Summer 2026): Artist-in-residence Sarah Kavage and Federal Way ceramicist Charan Sachar are developing a tactile mosaic artwork designed for blind and low-vision passengers, created in partnership with the Highline College accessibility group.
Sculptures by Christopher Paul Jordan – Star Lake and Kent Des Moines garage (Spring/Summer 2026): The sculpture “Woven in Light” will anchor the Star Lake plaza. The Tacoma-based artist envisions the work as a symbol of community belonging and shared ownership of public space.
Christopher Paul Jordan’s upcoming sculpture “Hand Me Downs” — a suspended hoodie form — reflects the ways traditions, values, and culture are passed between generations. Fabricated locally by Practik, a woman-owned firm, both large-scale sculptures will bring bold, community-centered energy to their spaces.
Experience art along the 1 Line
Whether you’re catching the train for your commute, meeting a friend, or simply exploring, take a moment to look around — the art at these new stations turns every trip into a journey through creativity, culture, and connection.
The 1 Line to Federal Way opens Dec. 6. Plan your trip and see the art for yourself!