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Welcome to The Seattle Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Redmond satellite antenna company Kymeta raises $20M in venture debt.

• Upcoming Seattle Storm match

• A deep-dive into the life of Stanley Donwood

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“So many things are possible just as long as you don’t know they’re impossible.”

–Norton Juster

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Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

Which Seattle park is famous for its “Troll under the Bridge” sculpture, a creative landmark located under the Aurora Bridge?

A) Gas Works Park

B) Fremont Troll

C) Olympic Sculpture Park

D) Volunteer Park

Answer to Week 42's Trivia:

The name of the annual technology and gaming convention held in Seattle, drawing thousands of attendees each year, is B) PAX West.

News

💼 Business

Amazon rolls out same-day delivery from upscale Seattle-area grocer. (Link)

Unicorn co-founders raise Series A round for new Redmond venture. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Reporter Bob Condotta hands out strong grades for Seahawks’ opening win. (Link)

While Huskies haven’t been tested yet, QB Will Rogers has passed the eye test. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Redmond satellite antenna company Kymeta raises $20M in venture debt. (Link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🤼 WWE Friday Night SmackDown
Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle
Friday, Sept. 13, 2024 | (More info)

🏀 Los Angeles Sparks at Seattle Storm
Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle
Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024 | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Oliver Tree
Q Nightclub, Seattle
Friday, Sept. 13, 2024 | (More info)

🎸 Social Distortion
Showbox at the Market, Seattle
Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024 | (More info)

Family

⚖️Toddler Music and Movement
7720 Greenwood Ave N #101, Seattle
Saturday, September 14, 2024 | (More info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Seattle with a central park featuring exotic, genetically engineered plants” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Seattle Historical Events

Space Needle Completion (1962) - Becoming an iconic symbol of Seattle and the Pacific Northwest.

The Space Needle, an emblematic symbol of Seattle and a celebrated feature of the Pacific Northwest's skyline, was envisioned and realized as a centerpiece for the Century 21 Exposition, also known as the 1962 Seattle World's Fair. Conceived by Edward E. Carlson and designed by architect John Graham, Jr., with its distinctive flying saucer-like top, the Space Needle embodied the era's fascination with space and the future. The construction of the tower was an engineering marvel of its time, featuring a groundbreaking foundation that was the largest concrete pour in the West up to that point. Completed in just over a year, the Space Needle proudly opened its doors on April 21, 1962, standing 605 feet tall and offering unparalleled 360-degree views of the surrounding city, mountains, and Puget Sound.

The Space Needle swiftly became more than just an exposition attraction; it grew into a beloved icon of Seattle and a symbol of the Pacific Northwest's spirit of innovation and aspiration towards the future. Its unique and forward-thinking design captured the imagination of visitors and residents alike, serving as a tangible representation of the era's optimism and the possibilities that lay beyond the Earth's atmosphere. Over the years, the Space Needle has withstood renovations and updates, including the addition of the Loupe, the world's first and only revolving glass floor, further reinforcing its status as a pioneering and enduring landmark.

Today, the Space Needle stands not just as a testament to the ambitions of the early 1960s but as a living emblem of Seattle's dynamic blend of natural beauty, technological innovation, and cultural richness. It continues to draw over a million visitors annually, offering breathtaking vistas and a unique perspective of the city. The Space Needle's enduring legacy and its role in shaping the identity of Seattle and the Pacific Northwest underscore its significance beyond mere architecture; it is a cherished cultural and historical beacon that captivates hearts and imaginations around the world.

Famous People From Seattle

Stanley Donwood (1968–) - While alive and not a Seattle native, his artwork for Radiohead's OK Computer was inspired by his time in the city, influencing its cultural output.

Stanley Donwood, born in 1968, is an English artist and writer, best known for his close association with the band Radiohead, for whom he has produced all album and single artwork since 1994. His distinctive style, often characterized by apocalyptic or sociopolitical themes, has become synonymous with Radiohead's music, complementing their sonic landscapes with visual depth and complexity.

Early Life and Artistic Inclinations (1968-1986)

Stanley Donwood grew up in Essex, England, where he developed an early interest in art. As a child, he was fascinated by drawing and painting, often escaping into his imaginative creations. This passion led him to pursue art more seriously, eventually enrolling in the University of Exeter to study fine art.

University Days and Meeting Thom Yorke (1987-1991)

While at the University of Exeter, Donwood met Thom Yorke, the lead singer of Radiohead, which was then called On a Friday. Their shared interests in music, art, and politics forged a strong bond between them. This connection would later become pivotal in Donwood's career, as Yorke invited him to create the artwork for Radiohead's music.

Collaboration with Radiohead Begins (1994-2000)

Donwood's first project for Radiohead was the album artwork for The Bends in 1995. His distinctive style haunting, surreal landscapes captured the angst and urgency of Radiohead's music, establishing a visual identity for the band. This collaboration marked the beginning of Donwood's ongoing role as Radiohead's chief artist.

The Creation of OK Computer Artwork (1997)

The artwork for OK Computer is among Donwood's most iconic creations. During this period, Donwood and Yorke spent time in Seattle, drawing inspiration from the city's landscape and culture. The experience in Seattle, characterized by its unique mix of urban and natural elements, profoundly influenced the dystopian themes and aesthetic of OK Computer's artwork, contributing significantly to its critical and commercial success.

Expanding Horizons (2001-2010)

Beyond Radiohead, Donwood explored other artistic endeavors, including solo exhibitions and collaborations with various artists and musicians. His work during this time continued to evolve, incorporating digital techniques and experimenting with different mediums but always retaining his signature thematic concerns of environmental destruction and political deceit.

Diving into Literature (2011-2015)

In addition to his visual art, Donwood delved into writing, publishing his first novel, Catacombs of Terror!, in 2015. His literary work shares the dark, apocalyptic themes of his artwork, woven with satire and black humor. This period underscored Donwood's versatility as an artist and writer.

Environmental Advocacy Through Art (2016-Present)

Donwood's recent projects have increasingly focused on environmental issues, reflecting his deep concerns about climate change and ecological destruction. Through exhibitions and public art installations, he has used his platform to advocate for environmental awareness and action, integrating his activism with his artistic practice.

Connection to Seattle and Artistic Influence (1997)

Stanley Donwood's encounter with Seattle while creating the artwork for OK Computer played a pivotal role in shaping the visual and thematic direction of the album. The city's combination of technological advancement and natural beauty sparked a creative exploration of the relationship between humanity, technology, and the environment. This experience underscored the mutual influence of place and creativity, marking a significant chapter in Donwood's artistic journey.

Legacy in Art and Music (Throughout Career)

Stanley Donwood's collaboration with Radiohead has produced some of the most memorable album artwork in modern music. His contribution to the band's visual identity has not only defined their aesthetic but has also influenced the way music is experienced visually. His work stands as a testament to the power of art to complement and enhance the musical experience.

Continuing Influence and Future Endeavors (2023 and Beyond)

Looking to the future, Donwood remains active in both the art and music worlds. His ongoing partnership with Radiohead, together with his solo projects, suggest a continuing evolution of his artistic vision. As environmental concerns become more pressing, Donwood's work is likely to gain even more relevance, serving as both a reflection and critique of contemporary society.

Key Achievements of Stanley Donwood:

• Created iconic album artwork for Radiohead, beginning with The Bends and including OK Computer, Kid A, and In Rainbows.

• His time in Seattle inspired the revolutionary artwork for OK Computer, linking the city's ethos with Radiohead's music.

• Held solo and collaborative art exhibitions worldwide, showcasing his broad range of artistic talents.

• Expanded his creative outlets to include writing, publishing his first novel and several other works.

• Actively engaged in environmental advocacy through his art, highlighting issues of climate change and ecological degradation.

Stanley Donwood has woven a rich tapestry of artistic endeavor throughout his career, seamlessly blending visual art with music and literature. His collaboration with Radiohead has not only defined the visual landscape of their music but also influenced the broader art and music communities. As an artist deeply concerned with the pressing issues of our time, Donwood's work continues to resonate, inspire, and provoke thought, demonstrating the enduring power of art to reflect and challenge the world around us.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

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