'Space Needle: A Hidden History'

The Seattle Public Library - Author Readings and Library Events

Did you know that the Space Needle’s shape was inspired by a wooden sculpture called “The Feminine One?” This short film explores the relationship between art, architecture, and the creative imagination. With interviews, dance and archival footage, filmmaker B.J. Bullert seeks to “change the way the public looks at the Space Needle.” Bullert’s goal, in producing the film, is to enhance public understanding of the arts, heritage and a plurality of Seattle identities during a period of rapid growth and change. Born and raised in Seattle, B.J. Bullert has produced biographical portraits and documentaries including Space Needle at 40, Chief Seattle and Fishermen's Terminal Revisited. A graduate of West Seattle High School, she started at The Evergreen State College and later earned degrees at Boston University, Oxford University and the University of Washington. In 2007, she joined the Core Faculty at Antioch University in Seattle where she teaches courses about making media for social change. The post-screening discussion will include a conversation with the filmmaker, Peter Steinbrueck whose father sketched the Space Needle’s curves, and architect Alan Maskin from Olson Kundig. Artists and crew from the film's production will be in attendance including poet Jourdan Imani Keith, dancer/choreographer Nia-Amina Minor and cellist Gretchen Yanover, who will open the evening with music. Check out the exhibit The Space Needle: A 21st Century View in the Level 8 Gallery @ The Central Library from October 7-27, 2019.