Culture

Becca Fuhrman: A Love Letter in Tile

A University of Washington graduate brings neighborhood stories to life for the Starbucks Art Program.
Culture
An illustration of a woman with flowing green hair holding a cup of coffee, framed by coffee beans and a golden sunburst.

Hometown pride

When University of Washington graduate Becca Fuhrman was commissioned to create art for our University Village coffeehouse in Seattle, she didn't just make a beautiful piece—she created a love letter to the community. Her floor-to-ceiling mosaic serves as both artistic centerpiece and hometown celebration.

Black and white selfie photo of the artist, Becca Fuhrman with braided hair, standing in front of a tree with multiple tents in the background.Black and white selfie photo of the artist, Becca Fuhrman with braided hair, standing in front of a tree with multiple tents in the background.

Becca didn't just make a beautiful piece—she created a love letter to the community.

Hidden details

At first glance, visitors see the iconic Starbucks Siren as the focal point of the 3,800-tile installation. But step closer, and Becca's intimate homages reveal themselves: the university's husky mascot, iconic cherry blossoms, and rowing-team heritage woven throughout the textured depths. This striking piece required three days and six local craftspeople from Tieton Mosaic to install, resulting in artwork that rewards both casual observation and deeper exploration. It's a perfect example of how the Starbucks Art Program creates pieces that grow more meaningful over time.

Learn more about the Starbucks Art Program

Exterior of Starbucks' University Village coffeehouse in Seattle at night, with illuminated sign and decorative elements.Exterior of Starbucks' University Village coffeehouse in Seattle at night, with illuminated sign and decorative elements.
The artist, Becca Fuhrman, standing in front of her floor-to-ceiling mosaic artwork.The artist, Becca Fuhrman, standing in front of her floor-to-ceiling mosaic artwork.
Close-up of mosaic tile details from Becca Fuhrman's art piece.Close-up of mosaic tile details from Becca Fuhrman's art piece.
Interior of a Starbucks coffeehouse, with wooden textures, marble countertops and decorative mosaic wall art by Becca Fuhrman.Interior of a Starbucks coffeehouse, with wooden textures, marble countertops and decorative wall art by local artists.
Starbucks cup on a tray with food, person sitting on a couch in the backgroundStarbucks cup on a tray with food, person sitting on a couch in the background

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