Fantasy About Horse Heaven Hills, 2000

D. Maxwell Helppie
(American, born 1926, died 2012)

Location: Hazen High School, Renton

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Artist D. Maxwell Helppie created Fantasy About Horse Heaven Hills in an impressionistic style influenced by the wildlife surrounding his studio on Whidbey Island, in northern Puget Sound. Speaking about this influence on his painting process, Helppie notes "I feel a primitive life force that sometimes unconsciously influences my choices of pigment, brush, color schemes and composition."

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

ABOUT THE ARTIST

The artworks of Dennis Maxwell Helppie (1926-2012) play freely between representation and abstraction. His art was influenced by the mysticism and culture of his Northern Finnish heritage. He noted: "To me, abstraction frees my creative abilities to continually explore new and different approaches to my work. It is very challenging and provides an avenue to stretch my imagination to its fullest."

Helppie grew up in the Detroit area. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps after high school from 1944 to 1947 and in the Army of Occupation in Germany. In 1951, he earned a Bachelors degree in art education with teaching credentials from Eastern Michigan University. In the 1950s, Helppie moved to Washington and taught arts and crafts at Lynnwood Junior High School and worked the afternoon shift at Boeing, where he was as an Inspector and Planner. In 1971, he earned a Master of Education degree in pyschology and counseling from the University of Washington in Seattle. He also taught business courses at Edmonds Community College for thirteen years. Helppie lived, worked, and made art in the Whidbey Island area for over thirty years.

ARTWORK DETAILS
Material CategoryPainting - paint on fabric
MediumAcrylic paint on canvas
Dimensions18 in x 24 in
ID NumberWSAC2000.225.000
Acquisition MethodDirect purchase
Artist LocationWashington, United States
Location Information
AgencyRenton School District
Artwork LocationHazen High School
Auditorium, Foyer
WA CountyKing
PlacementInterior
Site TypePublic School
Address1101 Hoquiam Ave NE
Renton, WA 98056
Geo. Coordinates47.501814, -122.152820
Before VisitingSome artworks may be located in areas not accessible to the general public (especially in K-12 public schools). Consider contacting the site prior to a visit to ensure access.
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