Outside the building are terra cotta (clay) relief sculptures by Seattle artist Steve Gardner. They show legends from different cultures about the sky and star constellations. Gardner also made terra cotta "rain chains" suspended from the roof that act as downspouts.
Sky Legends
Seattle ceramic artist Steve Gardner designed the terra cotta panels that tell stories from around the world about the sky. Like the sun, moon and stars, the Library provides illumination and inspiration for all.
Why the Moon is Free - Mexico (left) and The Sky Camel - Somalia (right)
The Silver River - Asia
Pushing Up the Sky - Native American - Snohomish
Phaeton and the Sun - ancient Greece