Artwork copyright Ruth Brockmann. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Spring Renewal with Salamanders, 2000

Ruth Brockmann
(American, born 1955, died 2013)

Location: Soap Lake Middle/High School, Soap Lake

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Spring Renewal with Salamanders is a glass mask created by artist Ruth Brockmann. It is part of a series of masks that celebrate the connections and relationships shared by all living creatures. This piece is inspired by the Salamander, which reappears after winter hibernation as one of the first signs of spring. Brockmann noted, “Over many generations it has been symbolic of rebirth and renewal. According to folk belief of the Middle Ages (approximately 450-1450) the salamander was an elemental spirit that could live unharmed in fire.”

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Soap Lake School District.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Ruth Brockmann (1955-2013) was a leader in the Northwest kiln-formed glass movement. She created fused-glass sculptures that celebrated and explored our spiritual connection to the natural world.

Ruth Brockman was one of the initial artists in the 1980s to work and experiment with Bullseye Glass Company's colored glass for fusing. She has taught glass fusing at the Pilchuck Glass School in Stanwood, Northwestern Washington, as well as around the United States and Canada. Her experimental, do-it-yourself art practice is heavily influenced by her experiences farming in Alaska and Washington, working on commercial fishing boats, traveling in Mexico, and Mother Nature.