The totems are 14 feet (4.3 m) tall and made of layered recycled materials intended to "create a surface representing earth, water and sky as a gateway to the Sellwood community".

According to the Regional Arts & Culture Council, the project's concept was "driven by the power and beauty of the geologic and natural phenomena" of the Willamette Valley.

The sculptures are owned by the city and maintained by the Regional Arts & Culture Council.

[1] Workers began installing the totems in August 2016, starting on the south side of Southeast Tacoma Street.

The remaining sculptures are slated to be installed on the north side of Tacoma Street by the end of 2016.