More than 40 community volunteers assisted Ramirez in painting the mural. As it was being created, bikers and joggers passing by shouted “thank you” for the vibrant addition to their workouts. When it was finished, a free roller disco party in the tunnel celebrated its completion. The following year, Ebb   Flow was recognized by Americans for the Arts with a Public Art Network (PAN) Year in Review award, which celebrates the most compelling public art nationwide.

While designing the artwork, Ramirez explored the trail’s history and engaged with area residents, including students at the University of Washington–Bothell, who were so inspired that they proposed their own surface treatment projects for two neighboring tunnels on the Burke-Gilman in Kenmore.

4Culture managed this project in partnership with King County Parks, whose Regional Trails System (RTS) extends over 175 miles from Bothell to Auburn and Seattle to the Cascades. The RTS Arts Master Plan, also commissioned by 4Culture, outlines a comprehensive vision for the creation of public art and integrated design features to make the network more distinctive, attractive, and unique. The Wayne Tunnel is among the first projects to be implemented from the plan’s recommendations.

Ramirez (1971-2021) was a Seattle-based printmaker, painter, and public artist who made work about place and our everyday experiences.