Arts commission endorses jurors' top six for Triangle Junction mural panels

The Bothell Arts Commission on April 16 accepted jurors' recommendations for six mural panels at Triangle Junction, agreeing to move forward with invitations to the top six applicants.

Commissioners described a multi‑stage selection: 21 initial applications were narrowed to nine finalists; finalists were paid to submit proposals and then scored by a three‑person jury using a rubric that weighed concept, creativity, public engagement and feasibility. Jurors reported consensus among the top five and disagreement around three borderline proposals; after discussion the commission supported the jurors' top six recommendations.

Members singled out one finalist from the Alyssa Burnett Center, whose application (prepared by instructor Jonathan Baker) the commission described as especially thorough and community‑engaged. Commissioners also praised high‑scoring entries from Devika Kapoor, Taylor Ruhland, Julio Vallela and others for their strong concept work and visual impact. One juror had tallied scores showing the top candidates were well separated from lower‑scoring proposals.

The commission did not record a formal roll‑call vote in the transcript; commissioners expressed support in discussion and directed staff to invite the top six to proceed with contracting and site coordination. Staff noted the project will consider placement order and accompanying signage, including plaques or QR codes to explain artists' intent.

Next steps: staff will contact the selected artists to finalize scope, scheduling and contracts and will return to the commission if additional approvals or funding adjustments are required.