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A Sound Garden facts for kids

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A Sound Garden
Artist Douglas Hollis
Year 1982-1983
Type Sound sculpture
Medium Steel
Dimensions 6.4 m (21 ft)
Location Seattle, WA, United States
Coordinates 47°41′08″N 122°15′00″W / 47.685444°N 122.249972°W / 47.685444; -122.249972
Owner National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration


A Sound Garden is a cool piece of public art located in Seattle, Washington. It's on property belonging to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), right next to Magnuson Park. This unique sculpture was created in 1982 by an artist named Doug Hollis.

What is A Sound Garden?

A Sound Garden is a special type of art called a sound sculpture. This means it's designed to make sounds, often using natural elements like wind. Doug Hollis built it using several tall metal tubes.

How Does it Make Sound?

The metal tubes are placed on structures that look a bit like weather vanes. These parts catch the wind. When the wind blows through the tubes, they create eerie, musical, and sometimes moaning sounds. It's like the wind is playing a giant instrument!

A Famous Band's Name

Did you know that a famous grunge band from Seattle got their name from this artwork? The band Soundgarden chose their name because they were inspired by this very unique sound sculpture.

Visiting A Sound Garden

Because A Sound Garden is located on NOAA property, there are some special rules for visiting. Since 2001, the area has had restricted access for security reasons. You can still visit the sculpture, but you'll need to check in with the guards at the entrance. You'll also need to show a photo ID. Cars are not allowed inside the facility, but you can walk to see the Sound Garden and enjoy the "Art Walk."

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