FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Aug. 11, 2014

MEDIA CONTACTS
Gwen Schuler, Media and Communications, gschuler@cityoftacoma.org, (253) 591-5160
Maria Lee, Media and Communications, maria.lee@cityoftacoma.org, (253) 591-2054

Rededication of ‘Children’s Bell’ Public Artwork on Aug. 28

The public is invited to celebrate the reinstallation of “Children’s Bell” by Larry Anderson on Aug. 28, from 2 – 3 p.m., in the park at 3825 Ruston Way. Anderson will be present at this event, along with Council Member David Boe, representatives from Washington Partnerships for Action Voices for Empowerment (PAVE), and members of the Tacoma Arts Commission. 

The sculpture was commissioned as a gift to the citizens of Tacoma from PAVE and other private donors to celebrate the life, spirit and accomplishments of PAVE founder and director Marty Gentili (May 26, 1942 – Feb. 28, 1993). 

“We are delighted the bell is home again for all to play,” said PAVE Executive Director Tracy Kahlo. “It reminds us of the importance to celebrate the gifts of all children while honoring the life of Marty.  We greatly appreciate the combined efforts of the City of Tacoma and the Tacoma Arts Commission for restoring the bell for all to enjoy.” 

The “Children’s Bell” was originally installed along Ruston Way and gifted to the City in 2000. The cast bronze sculpture measures over five feet tall and is decorated with a parade of children around the border. It was designed to be rung and accessible by people with disabilities. 

The sculpture was removed from Ruston Way in 2011 to allow for structural and cosmetic repairs and work on the surrounding site. The City reinstalled the sculpture and completed restoration work in 2014.

PAVE provides support, advocacy, training and informational resources to empower families and individuals with disabilities. Since 1979, PAVE has provided information, training and support for over 1,000,000 individuals with disabilities, parents and professionals.

Anderson resides in Bonney Lake and is a prolific bronze sculptor whose sculptural work can be seen throughout Tacoma and across the United States.