Artwork copyright James Madison. Photo courtesy of the artist, 2024.

Artwork copyright James Madison. Photo courtesy of the artist, 2024.

Salmon Run, 2021

James Madison
(American | Tulalip | Tlingit, born 1973)

Location: Thomas Jefferson High School, Auburn

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Salmon Run by James Madison (Tulalip and Tlingit) combines the traditional imagery of four salmon with a non-traditional metal material. Madison notes that he is “always thinking of new ways to add a modern twist to a traditional piece. This allows me to help to keep my culture alive. As we move into the future, so do the teachings of my ancestors.”

This artwork is part of a curated collection by Asia Tail in April 2024 for three Federal Way Public Schools in South King County. Asia chose graphic works that are as bold and diverse as the students, by artists with ties to South Puget Sound. Images of language, people, and the natural world create a poem for this place where students live and learn. She notes, "School is a place where we can connect with new families. And families are always strongest when working together."

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

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Tulalip Tribes member James Madison (Tulalip and Tlingit) is a master wood carver. He also works in glass, bronze, and stainless steel, and seeks to combine the new with the old. Madison notes that he is “always thinking of new ways to add a modern twist to a traditional piece. This allows for me to help to keep my culture alive. As we move into the future, so do the teachings of my ancestors.”

Madison was born into a family steeped in traditional Salish and Tlingit Northwest Coast Native art. He began carving when he was 8 years old, learning from his grandfather, uncle, and father. He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Washington in 2000, followed by a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the Pratt School of Fine Arts in 2004 (both in Seattle). One of Madison's major works is a 24-foot story pole at the Tulalip Casino. His artwork can also be seen at Providence Hospital in Everett, the Burke Museum at the University of Washington.