Artwork copyright Camas Logue. Photo courtesy of the artist, 2023.

Artwork copyright Camas Logue. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, by Jenn Cohen, 2023.

Artwork copyright Camas Logue. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, by Jenn Cohen, 2023.

Klamath Land Pigment Series, 2023

Camas Logue
(Klamath Tribes, born 1984)

Location: Ferndale High School, Ferndale

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

" Klamath Land Pigment Series [by artist Camas Logue] is an on-going exploration of my ancestral homelands, our traditions, and the potential for working with natural pigments in non-traditional modes of expression. I begin by documenting and collecting pigments and plant dyes. I use these earthy materials to make the paints and inks. On small wood panels, I layer the oils and inks and watercolor, binding them together with varnish. Then I use scrapers and washes to erode and dissolve the top layers, allowing what is below to show through. The process is both planned and experimental, intuitive, and revelatory. In the end, these paintings are abstract interpretations of the places where I find spiritual and cultural significance. My work brings me closer to the land and gives me opportunities to spend time observing and learning from it.”--Camas Logue.

This artwork is part of a curated collection by Tami Landis in September 2023 for Ferndale High School, in Whatcom County, Northeastern Washington. The collection is rooted in a creative spirit of admiring and honoring our connection to the lands and sea of this region. The artworks also share a theme of diversity and inclusivity. They speak to all walks of life, in all seasons, and act as a symbol of welcoming for years to come.

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

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Camas Logue is a multidisciplinary artist and enrolled Klamath tribal member from the ewksiknii, modokish, and numu people. Logue’s art practice includes painting, printmaking, weaving, carving, installation, and public art.

Logue lives with his family in the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community in Northwestern Washington. Logue’s home studio sits in the Tallawhalt village between Similk Bay and the Swinomish Channel. It is where he paints and weaves ewksiknii, modokish, and coastal basketry. Logue also works at his family’s carving studio with his father-in-law, Swinomish elder and master carver Kevin Paul. Logue is also a professional musician, playing drums and guitar in the band Black Belt Eagle Scout, which is led by his wife, Katherine Paul.