Marinascope (South Marina Park)

Marinascope: A Walk-Through Kaleidoscope That Honors Maritime History

At the south end of the Des Moines Marina stands a curious metal sculpture that looks transported from a futuristic world. In fact, this impressive piece, created by renowned Des Moines glass artist George C. Scott in 2018, was made from a refurbished shipping lane buoy once used in the construction of the second Tacoma Narrows Bridge. Scott transformed the buoy by creating portholes of varying sizes around its exterior, then filling them with colorful fused glass circles made by local residents in his studio. Measuring 10 feet high by six feet wide, the dome-like structure beckons passersby to step through its whimsical doorway. Once inside this "walk-through kaleidoscope," you'll see how sunlight filters through the circles, which highlight the region's maritime connection.

About the Artist:
George C. Scott is one of the most well-known artists in Seattle Southside, with a studio in downtown Des Moines and multiple works of public art around the region. He was born and raised in Los Angeles and began working in glass in Laguna Beach in 1976. After moving to Seattle in 1991, he continued to explore, taking advantage of the common studio spaces at Pratt Fine Arts and the wealth of knowledge in the Seattle glass community. His work includes sculpture, art glass lighting, and a variety of architectural elements and applications. His artwork may be seen in galleries, collections, and public installations or on his website, georgecscottstudios.com.

Beyond Marinascope:
The Des Moines Marina is a beautiful place to take in views of Puget Sound. Walk out onto a long, well-maintained pier, or wander over to Des Moines Beach Park to check out the tidepools or explore Des Moines Creek Trail, a 2-mile paved trail great for walking, jogging, or biking.