Artwork copyright Cheri O'Brien. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission.

Artwork copyright Cheri O'Brien. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Artwork copyright Cheri O'Brien. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission.

Artwork copyright Cheri O'Brien. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission.

Artwork copyright Cheri O'Brien. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission.

Artwork copyright Cheri O'Brien. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission.

The Jewel of Silver Lake, 2013

Cheri O'Brien
American (born 1958)

Location: Silver Lake Elementary, Everett

About the Artwork

This mosaic artwork by artist Cheri O'Brien compliments her glass mural that surrounds the main doors. Together they celebrate life around Silver Lake Elementary School in Everett, Northwest Washington. These mosaics feature the nature found in the area and waterfront of Puget Sound. O'Brien herself attended the second grade at Silver Lake Elementary School in 1965 and continues to live in the area.

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Everett Public Schools.

About the Artist

Northwest artist Cheri O'Brien creates quirky and humorous narrative folk-compositions. She uses many different materials, including oil painting, paper-mache sculpture, and painted glass. In her own words, "My paintings are reflections of my life as an artist, mother, and observer. I attempt to understand my world with finding humor in beauty and the beauty of humor."