Artwork copyright Jo Fyfe. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Ceremonial Drum, 1999

Jo Fyfe
(American, born 1941)

Location: Quilcene K-12 School, Quilcene

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Ceremonial Drum is part of artist Jo Fyfe’s body of work that features imagery and figures inspired by Native American culture and traditions. This piece shows a young girl and a drummer at a Powwow. She notes, “If you have ever attended a Powwow, you have experienced and probably have been captivated by the energy that surrounds you… A silence falls. It is the Grand Entry! This is when all participants enter the circle together to honor the drum, each other, their relations and the maker of all… As the hours pass, the drums, dances and songs continue. There is a point at which one can no longer tell the difference between the drum and one’s own heartbeat.”

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

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Spokane, Eastern Washington-based artist Jo Fyfe explores color, texture, and narrative using a variety of materials and found objects.

Born in Omak, Northeastern Washington, Jo Fyfe's artworks are influenced by the heritage of Native American cultures of the interior Pacific Northwest. She earned her Master in Fine Arts degree from Washington State University in Pullman, Eastern Washington, and taught art for many years at Spokane Falls Community College.