DRIFT

installed June 2025
by Will Schlough

Life on the edge of Puget Sound is filled with natural wonder—from misty mornings that lift the Olympic Mountains into the sky to the mysterious, dreamlike world beneath the waves. That intersection of land, sea, and sky is the inspiration behind “Drift,” the newest mural from Mural Project Edmonds (MPE), a committee of Art Walk Edmonds.

Painted by muralist Will Schlough, “Drift” transforms the south-facing wall of the Reef Apartments (250 Beach Place) into a breathtaking surrealist landscape. A Pacific sea nettle jellyfish rises gracefully from the depths, its oral arms echoing the form of drifting clouds as they blend into a vivid Olympic Peninsula sunset.

The project began when building owners Jay and Tiffany Bennett reached out to Art Walk Edmonds after learning they would need to replace a deteriorating wall. Inspired by the growing mural scene around town, they saw an opportunity to create something beautiful in its place.

“We’ve always loved the murals around Edmonds,” said Jay Bennett. “Rather than leave a blank wall, we wanted to contribute something that reflects the unique beauty of this place—both above and below the waterline.”

Tiffany Bennett, an avid admirer of jellyfish, asked that the design incorporate these elegant, otherworldly creatures. Schlough took inspiration from the Pacific sea nettle jellyfish, and in studying its flowing oral arms, had a creative breakthrough.

“I realized the jellyfish's oral arms looked just like clouds,” said Schlough. “That ‘aha’ moment shaped the entire mural—merging ocean life with the sky in a way that felt both surreal and natural.”

The result is a work that evokes the magical realism of the Puget Sound region—one that shifts in meaning depending on how and where it’s viewed. The mural is visible from the beach, the fishing pier, and passing trains, while details are best appreciated up close in the adjacent parking lot.

MPE Chair Mark VonGunten led the selection process, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to bringing a diverse range of artistic styles to the community.

“Will’s imaginative-realistic technique combined with elements of magical realism was something new for Edmonds,” said VonGunten. “Our goal is to keep pushing boundaries and keep the city’s public art both high-quality and fresh.”

Funds for new murals are raised primarily through downtown Edmonds Summer Wine Walks, which are hosted by Art Walk Edmonds twice each summer. Donations, grants and sponsorships also help with the costs.

Anyone interested in donating to the Art Walk Edmonds can do so online here. Companies or entities interested in sponsoring a new mural should contact Art Walk Edmonds.