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HomeMy WebLinkAboutExhibit B - Legacy Square Art PlanLegacy Square Art Plan Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and Will Schlough RFQ: Exhibit B Page 1 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 2 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN Contents Introduction Art Plan Goals Legacy Square Description and Setting Features of Renton Community Engagement Artwork Themes and Aesthetic Phases for Artwork Opportunities for Artwork Guidelines for Selection and Implementation RFQ: Exhibit B Page 2 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 3 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN Introduction Legacy Square is envisioned as a dynamic hub of activity and connection for the Renton community. While its initial development aligns with the 2026 World Cup, the square is designed to serve as a lasting focal point for the city’s cultural, recreational, and social life well into the future. Featuring a soccer pitch, performance stage, food vendors, and a newly renovated playground, Legacy Square will provide countless opportunities for residents and visitors alike to gather, celebrate, and engage. This Art Plan outlines the placement of public artworks throughout the park’s evolution, along with guiding principles to support the thoughtful selection of artists and artworks that reflect Renton’s character and aspirations. RFQ: Exhibit B Page 3 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 4 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN Art Plan Goals The Art Plan establishes a framework for integrating art as a defining element of Legacy Square. The goals are to: Implement public artworks that meaningfully engage with and reflect the Renton community. Develop a cohesive sense of place through a curated body of work grounded in shared themes and approaches. Elevate the visibility of the arts in Renton by prioritizing thoughtful, high-quality works that enhance the park’s aesthetic. Showcase a diversity of artistic processes and forms while maintaining unity through themes. Inspire discovery and interaction, positioning Legacy Square as a distinctive destination with opportunities for exploration and connection. RFQ: Exhibit B Page 4 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 5 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN § SECTION § SUBSECTION Legacy Square: Description and Setting Located at the corner of S 3rd Avenue and Logan Avenue S, Legacy Square sits at the heart of Renton. It is adjacent to community neighbors such as the Church of the Living God the Light of the World, Harmony Childcare Center, and the Renton Civic Theater. Across Logan Avenue, the Renton Pavilion Events Center and Piazza Park extend the cultural landscape, while the Cedar River meanders just two blocks away. Surrounded by the unique shops and restaurants along Renton’s walkable 3rd Avenue corridor, Legacy Square will serve as a vibrant new gathering place—an energetic core within an already thriving downtown. By weaving art into the square’s design and experience, the park will become not only a hub for community activity but also a living reflection of Renton’s identity and spirit. RFQ: Exhibit B Page 5 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 6 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN Features of Renton The City of Renton is a place where diverse forces intersect to create a vibrant and dynamic community. Renton is nationally recognized as one of the most diverse ZIP codes in the country, with residents representing a wide range of languages, cultures, and traditions. This diversity is reflected in the city’s 30+ unique neighborhoods, each contributing to Renton’s collective identity. Diversity / Diversity is one of Renton’s greatest strengths. It is both a source of pride for residents and a defining feature of the city’s culture, fostering a spirit of inclusivity and belonging. Outdoors / The Cedar River flows through the heart of Renton, serving as a natural landmark and source of community pride. The city’s distinctive library, perched directly above the river, underscores the river’s role as an integral part of daily life. Together with the city’s many parks, trails, and open spaces, the river makes Renton a destination for outdoor recreation and appreciation of the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty. Athletics / Athletics are a defining thread in Renton’s identity. Both the Seattle Seahawks and Seattle Sounders maintain practice facilities in the city, reflecting Renton’s ties to professional sports. Within the community, Legacy Square’s soccer pitch further reinforces this connection, offering residents a place to engage in sport and celebrate active living. Arts / The arts in Renton thrive alongside athletics, reflecting the city’s diversity and creativity. From community hubs such as Wyldwood Creative to events like Art in Motion and the Downtown Art Walk, and with institutions including the Renton Civic Theater and Renton Art Lounge, the city is a destination for those seeking inspiration, expression, and creativity. Gaming and Fantasy / Renton has also become a unique cultural hub for gaming and fantasy. Home to Wizards of the Coast and beloved community mascots like Erasmus the Dragon, Renton embraces a playful identity that sets it apart from other cities in the Pacific Northwest. While the city continues to expand its broader identity, residents take pride in this distinctive and imaginative cultural thread. History and Industry / Renton’s roots are grounded in a rich, blue-collar history of coal mining and manufacturing. Over time, the city has transformed into a hub for innovation, with technology and aerospace serving as major drivers of its modern economy. This balance of history and progress continues to shape Renton’s character. Community Events / Renton’s spirit comes alive through its many community events, including River Days, farmers’ markets, gaming meet-ups, and seasonal celebrations such as dragon egg hunts. These gatherings embody the city’s vibrancy, and Legacy Square is envisioned as a central RFQ: Exhibit B Page 6 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 7 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN § FEATURES OF RENTON RFQ: Exhibit B Page 7 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 8 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN Community Engagement Through conversations with residents and local leaders, several themes consistently emerge as defining elements of Renton’s identity. One of the most diverse communities in the nation, where cultures, voices, and perspectives thrive. A city rooted in history while embracing a bold, tech-driven future. A deep appreciation for parks, nature, and the everyday beauty of the Pacific Northwest. A community where people feel welcome to be themselves. Community Crests As part of a community engagement initiative, residents of all ages were invited to design sports- inspired crests representing Renton’s unique qualities. The project was originally conceived as a playful way to imagine Renton as a “league of cultural teams.” The resulting crests provided an engaging visual display while reflecting the diversity, pride, and creativity of the community. The entries revealed what residents value most about their city, offering insight into shared symbols and stories that inform Renton’s evolving identity. RFQ: Exhibit B Page 8 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 9 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN Artwork Themes and Aesthetic Legacy Square will be an active and dynamic space, with limited room for large-scale artwork. As such, artworks must be thoughtfully integrated to enliven the environment without detracting from its functionality as a gathering place. The design of Legacy Square leans into a natural aesthetic, reflected in the remodeled playground’s wood and stone elements, the corten steel stage, and the concrete infrastructure throughout the park. Artwork should harmonize with this backdrop of earthy browns and grays while incorporating bold pops of color to highlight messages and invite attention. RFQ: Exhibit B Page 9 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 10 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN § ARTWORK THEMES AND AESTHETIC primary theme Movement The overarching theme of “Movement” reflects both the physical activity of the square and the vibrancy of the Renton community. With the soccer pitch, remodeled playground, and Legacy Square’s role as a hub for gatherings and celebrations, the space is envisioned as having its own pulse. Artworks may interpret “Movement” through visual motifs such as flowing lines, dynamic shapes, or playful elements reminiscent of squiggles, heartbeats, bouncing balls, or musical crescendos. The theme may also extend to kinetic artworks that incorporate literal motion, reinforcing the sense of energy and momentum within the park. secondary themes Discovery / Renton offers endless opportunities for discovery—whether through its unique downtown shops, diverse neighborhoods, or vibrant events. Art in Legacy Square should echo this spirit, encouraging visitors to explore through small, hidden artworks or rotating pieces that invite repeat visits. Gamification / Interactive and playful artworks can further engage the community. Reflecting Renton’s gaming culture, installations may incorporate elements of participation, storytelling, or interactive play—bringing joy and a sense of ownership to the space. Elevating the Arts / The City of Renton is committed to elevating the arts. Public artworks in Legacy Square should be thoughtful, high-quality contributions that consider form, materiality, and context. Beyond decoration, each piece should deepen the park’s cultural resonance and align with the broader vision of Renton as a creative, forward-thinking community. History / Legacy Square exists within the context of Renton’s evolving history, which should inform artistic choices and ensure works feel authentic to the city’s character. Light / Lighting is a central design feature of Legacy Square, with programmable elements to support community gatherings, sporting events, and seasonal celebrations. Artists are encouraged to explore creative uses of light to amplify the park’s atmosphere. Nature / Organic forms and inspiration from the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty can align with the overarching theme of movement, creating a sense of harmony between art and environment. Language as Opportunity / Given Renton’s remarkable diversity, language offers a powerful opportunity for artistic expression. Multilingual elements, developed in partnership with community resources, can highlight and celebrate cultural representation in an inclusive way. RFQ: Exhibit B Page 10 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 11 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN § ARTWORK THEMES AND AESTHETIC RFQ: Exhibit B Page 11 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 12 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN Phases for Artwork With Legacy Square scheduled to open in June 2026, the timeline for artwork implementation must be carefully coordinated. To ensure both impact and feasibility, artwork is envisioned in three phases. phase one Phase One focuses on early implementation. These artworks should be installed as quickly as possible to generate excitement, signal the importance of art within Legacy Square, and build anticipation for the park’s opening. phase two Phase Two represents the most critical stage, aligning with the park’s grand opening and the 2026 World Cup. Artworks in this phase will be integral to the park’s unveiling, requiring close coordination with structural development. These should serve as signature, high-impact pieces that establish Legacy Square as a landmark destination. phase three Phase Three includes optional artworks that may be integrated into existing park infrastructure or added in the future. Flexible in both process and timeline, these pieces will enhance the park’s sense of place and provide opportunities for continued growth and engagement. RFQ: Exhibit B Page 12 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 13 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN Opportunities for Artwork Legacy Square offers multiple opportunities for integrating public art, each contributing to the park’s atmosphere, identity, and functionality. Eight priority project areas have been identified, each with varying levels of impact, importance, and time sensitivity. Wall Art / Mural Gateway Sculpture Ground Plane and Stage Wall / Screen Murals Patio Lighting / Infrastructure Exterior Artwork on Stage Artwork Integrated into Benches Smaller Artwork on Concrete Infrastructure Landscape Integrated Artwork Performances and Temporary Art RFQ: Exhibit B Page 13 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 14 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN § OPPORTUNITIES FOR ARTWORK # 1 Wall Art / Mural The most visible and readily achievable project is a large wall mural on the façade facing Legacy Square. The wall belongs to the Church of the Living God the Light of the World, which has agreed to host thematic artwork. Given the wall’s condition, highly detailed mural work may not be ideal; instead, bold, graphic imagery or applied processes should be considered. themes of interest Movement / Elevating the Arts / Aesthetic / Language as Opportunity timeline Phase One suggested budget $20,000–$50,000 artwork goals ▪Serve as an early, visible marker of Legacy Square’s development. ▪Contribute to a festive atmosphere that builds anticipation for the World Cup and the park’s new playground. ▪Express the overarching theme of movement, bringing color, vibrancy, and energy to the site. ▪Signal that art is a core element of the park experience. additional considerations ▪Plan for the wall’s long-term future, including potential renovations to the church or surrounding park structures. ▪Ensure imagery complements the stage backdrop and broader park setting. ▪Align the timeline with the park’s unveiling and future programming needs. RFQ: Exhibit B Page 14 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 15 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN § OPPORTUNITIES FOR ARTWORK # 1 RFQ: Exhibit B Page 15 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 16 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN § OPPORTUNITIES FOR ARTWORK # 2 Gateway Sculpture The gateway sculpture is envisioned as the signature artwork of Legacy Square. As a focal point in a compact site, this piece will serve as both a landmark and a unifying element, anchoring the park’s aesthetic and themes. themes of interest Movement / Elevating the Arts / Focus on Light / Aesthetic recommended timeline Phase Two suggested budget $80,000–$100,000 artwork goals ▪Create a welcoming, iconic entry that reflects pride, importance, and connectivity. ▪Draw visitors into the park while maintaining accessibility and flow. ▪Incorporate light in innovative ways to symbolize energy and renewal. ▪Reflect the park’s themes of movement and elevating the arts. ▪Connect visually and materially with the stage, playground, and the Renton Loop artwork, reinforcing continuity with Renton’s history and future. additional considerations ▪Design a form that conveys movement without overwhelming surrounding features such as the playground or landscaping. ▪Balance hardscape and tree canopy at the entryway to maintain both impact and harmony. ▪Consider year-round visibility and seasonal changes in the environment. RFQ: Exhibit B Page 16 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 17 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN § OPPORTUNITIES FOR ARTWORK # 2 RFQ: Exhibit B Page 17 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 18 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN § OPPORTUNITIES FOR ARTWORK # 3 Ground Plane and Stage Wall / Screen Murals This dual-surface project integrates artwork across both the asphalt ground in front of the stage and the stage’s wall/screen, creating a cohesive environment that enhances the overall atmosphere of Legacy Square. themes of interest Movement / Nature / Discovery / Gamification / Aesthetic recommended timeline Phase Two suggested budget $10,000–$30,000 artwork goals ▪Use color and pattern to connect vertical and horizontal surfaces, establishing visual continuity between the ground plane and stage. ▪Foster interactive experiences for all ages, from daytime play to evening performances. additional considerations ▪Ensure compatibility with the primary wall mural to avoid visual conflict. ▪Define the extent of ground coverage, balancing visual impact with maintenance needs. ▪Leverage opportunities to incorporate natural inspiration within the broader theme of movement. ▪Plan for long-term maintenance and possible periodic refreshes, as ground murals are susceptible to fading. RFQ: Exhibit B Page 18 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 19 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN § OPPORTUNITIES FOR ARTWORK # 3 RFQ: Exhibit B Page 19 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 20 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN § OPPORTUNITIES FOR ARTWORK # 4 Patio Lighting / Infrastructure Lighting will be a defining feature of Legacy Square, shaping the park’s mood, atmosphere, and overall aesthetic. The central plaza is particularly well-suited for event lighting, offering an opportunity for functional infrastructure to double as public art. Structural components that support programmable bistro lighting, or freestanding lighting elements designed as sculptural works, can both enhance usability and contribute to the park’s visual identity. Lighting can also serve as a unifying design element, visually linking key features such as the Logan Street entrance, playground, stage, and soccer pitch. Careful aesthetic and thematic decisions will strengthen cohesion across the park. Whether expressed through dynamic movement, recurring forms, or repeating colors, lighting elements can play a central role in shaping a consistent sense of place throughout Legacy Square. themes of interest Movement / Focus on Light / Aesthetic / Elevate the Arts recommended timeline Phase Two suggested budget Scope dependent additional considerations Creativity Shows Care ▪Artwork demonstrates value when it is distinctive and site-specific. ▪Lighting should first and foremost function to appropriately light the space for gatherings and safety. ▪Incorporating custom artistic elements into lighting or infrastructure signals that the park is unique—designed with intention and care. ▪Even simple artwork additions can demonstrate care for a place and help create an atmosphere and sense of place. RFQ: Exhibit B Page 20 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 21 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN § OPPORTUNITIES FOR ARTWORK # 4 RFQ: Exhibit B Page 21 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 22 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN § OPPORTUNITIES FOR ARTWORK # 5 Exterior Artwork on Stage While integrating artwork directly into the corten steel panels of the stage is no longer feasible due to fabrication timelines and budget constraints, opportunities remain for exterior artistic interventions once the stage is constructed. These could include painted or affixed works, allowing for a wide range of processes and creative approaches. themes of interest Movement / Discovery / Elevate the Arts / Nature / History recommended timeline Phase Three suggested budget Scope dependent possible approaches ▪Designating a section of the stage exterior as a rotating canvas for local artists. ▪Incorporating small sculptural components—such as metal butterflies or other motifs— affixed to the stage surface. ▪Painting a mural directly on the steel, designed to interact with its industrial character. Unlike other artwork sites that suggest more obvious approaches, the stage exterior faces outward from the park, making it a highly visible and versatile opportunity for creative expression. RFQ: Exhibit B Page 22 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 23 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN § OPPORTUNITIES FOR ARTWORK # 5 RFQ: Exhibit B Page 23 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 24 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN § OPPORTUNITIES FOR ARTWORK # 6 Artwork Integrated into Benches Functional infrastructure presents valuable opportunities to reinforce identity and enhance aesthetics. Benches throughout Legacy Square are integrated into the tiered concrete design of the plaza, and they offer an ideal platform for artistic customization. Adding elements such as laser-cut metal backs or decorative sides can transform standard seating into visually engaging and thematic works of art. This approach allows for subtle yet effective storytelling, with opportunities to reflect key themes—particularly movement—in ways that feel both natural and purposeful. themes of interest Movement / Elevate the Arts / Discovery / History / Nature / Language as Opportunity recommended timeline Phase Two suggested budget $10,000–$30,000 RFQ: Exhibit B Page 24 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 25 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN § OPPORTUNITIES FOR ARTWORK # 6 RFQ: Exhibit B Page 25 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 26 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN § OPPORTUNITIES FOR ARTWORK # 7 Smaller Artwork on Concrete Infrastructure Some of the most memorable artworks are discovered rather than immediately confronted. Incorporating small-scale artworks into concrete surfaces throughout Legacy Square can create a sense of wonder, encouraging visitors to look closer and engage more deeply with the site. Small bronze sculptures, similar to Tom Otterness’ work in the New York City subway, could weave narratives across the park, connecting different areas through shared imagery and storytelling. Mosaics, reliefs, or other affixed two-dimensional artworks could also enrich concrete faces and edges. Beyond their aesthetic contribution, smaller artworks offer flexibility: they can be added over time, rotated to sustain interest, and introduced as part of new community engagement phases. This sense of discovery helps keep the park dynamic and alive, reinforcing the overarching theme of movement. themes of interest Discovery / Gamification / Elevate the Arts / Nature / Fantasy recommended timeline Phase Three suggested budget $5,000–$20,000 possible approaches ▪Small bronze sculptures that unfold as a narrative across multiple locations. ▪Small-scale concrete sculptures integrated into infrastructure. ▪Mosaics or other two-dimensional artworks affixed to vertical or horizontal surfaces. ▪Artist-designed skateboard deterrents that merge function with creative intrigue. RFQ: Exhibit B Page 26 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 27 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN § OPPORTUNITIES FOR ARTWORK # 7 RFQ: Exhibit B Page 27 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 28 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN § OPPORTUNITIES FOR ARTWORK # 8 Landscape Integrated Artwork The landscaped areas surrounding the playground present another opportunity for discovery- driven artwork that ties natural and fabricated elements together. Integrated landscape art can support thematic connections to play, nature, and movement, while also offering moments of delight for children and adults alike. These works need not be large in scale or budget-intensive to be effective. Subtle interventions— such as kinetic lighting elements or small sculptural installations—can animate the space with a sense of magic, creating a seamless transition between playground activities and the broader artistic identity of Legacy Square. themes of interest Movement / Focus on Light / Discovery recommended timeline Phase Three suggested budget $5,000–$20,000 RFQ: Exhibit B Page 28 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 29 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN § OPPORTUNITIES FOR ARTWORK # 8 RFQ: Exhibit B Page 29 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 30 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN § OPPORTUNITIES FOR ARTWORK # 9 Performances and Temporary Art As the cultural centerpiece of downtown Renton, Legacy Square must also embrace the dynamic potential of live performances and temporary artwork. While permanent works provide enduring character and identity, temporary and rotating installations keep the park fresh and responsive, reflecting the evolving identity of the community. These events and installations also provide opportunities for local artists, performers, and cultural organizations to engage directly with the public, ensuring that the park remains a living, breathing space defined by its people. Rotating exhibitions, pop-up installations, and performance-based activations can extend the park’s relevance across seasons and years, strengthening its role as the heart of downtown. themes of interest Diversity / The Arts / History and Industry / Gaming / Discovery recommended timeline Phase Three suggested budget Scope dependent RFQ: Exhibit B Page 30 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 31 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN § OPPORTUNITIES FOR ARTWORK # 9 RFQ: Exhibit B Page 31 of 33 Prepared for City of Renton by Sarah Robbins and WIll Schlough Page 32 of 33 LEGACY SQUARE ART PLAN Guidelines for Selection and Implementation The collection of artworks at Legacy Square should reflect both the diversity of Renton and the city’s ambition to elevate the arts. Elevation in this context means not only commissioning impactful, high-quality, permanent artworks, but also creating opportunities for emerging artists, supporting experimentation, and fostering community engagement. By balancing significant permanent pieces with smaller, temporary, or community-driven projects, the art program can authentically reflect Renton’s identity while advancing its cultural profile. Elevating the arts ultimately means inspiring, supporting, and celebrating creativity in all its forms—not just producing monumental works. All artworks should be: ▪Created with professional processes and of the highest quality. ▪Selected by a panel representing Renton’s diverse community, with members invested in both the park and the arts. ▪Culturally appropriate, thoughtfully conceived, and skillfully executed. ▪Emphasize Renton’s role as a hub for creativity by commissioning a variety of projects that support artists at different stages of their careers. ▪Reflect the city’s diversity by engaging artists who represent a wide range of voices, backgrounds, and perspectives. ▪Supported by realistic budgets and timelines to ensure successful completion. ▪ Evaluated based on project goals, whether permanent landmark works or temporary experimental installations. ▪Ensure artist selection follows established best practices in public art, utilizing RFQs and RFPs where appropriate, and providing fair and transparent compensation for all work. ▪Designed with sensitivity to site use, traffic patterns, seasonal changes, maintenance needs, and the potential for graffiti or wear. RFQ: Exhibit B Page 32 of 33 CONTACT Sarah Robbins robbins.sarah@me.com sarah-robbins.com Will Schlough willschlough@gmail.com willschlough.com RFQ: Exhibit B Page 33 of 33