Exploring Public Art in Sidney
Sidney’s downtown and waterfront are home to many public art pieces that add beauty and culture to the area.
Sidney’s downtown and waterfront are home to many public art pieces that add beauty and culture to the area.
The W̱SÁNEĆ Welcome Figure with Eagle was carved in the traditional Coast Salish style by artist Perry LaFortune – XELIMET of SȾAUTW̱ along with his brother Tom LaFortune – KAtēwha‡et of W̱SÍ,ḴEM. The carving was dedicated on July 21, 2017 and restored in 2025.
The carving represents the welcome that European settlers received from the W̱SÁNEĆ people when they first arrived to this land. The eagle standing on top of the Welcome Figure symbolizes the strength and respect that is needed to move forward together.