Turning Tacoma Dome into world’s largest Andy Warhol could be costly, high maintenance

Tacoma’s City Council will meet Tuesday to continue talks on whether it’s feasible to wrap the Tacoma Dome in a vibrant yellow and orange flower print designed by iconic artist Andy Warhol.

Warhol submitted a giant, colorful flower design in a 1981 design competition and lost, but community groups have been working to bring what would be the world’s biggest “Warhol” to life since then.

Along with appearance, money is a big issue. The city doesn’t have the funds to pay the estimated $2.1 million for installation and future removal, and is looking for donors to take it on.

Maintaining the wrap is also a big concern. In a new report being presented to the Council Tuesday, City Manager T.C. Broadnax says the roof would require twice-yearly cleanings that would cost about $300,000 per year.

The city tested a vinyl patch on the Dome roof over a five month period to determine the impact of sun, wind and rain, and found it weathered well, but did get noticeably dirty over the test period.

“This is not surprising due to the exposure to the elements in this location, but presents a condition that could negatively impact appearance and presentation, regardless of the frequency of cleanings,” says the report by Kim Bedier, director of public assembly facilities for the city.