Artwork copyright Ries Niemi. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Handstools, 1994

Ries Niemi
American (born 1955)

Location: Lincoln Elementary, Olympia

About the Artwork

Ries Niemi created the design for this pair of cut-steel stools by using and enlarge drawing of his own hands as the template. These furniture pieces are part of the artist's body of work that explores the human form. He notes: "I like the universal appeal of an image like the hand. Everyone has one, and everyone can understand the piece, without any special studying required."

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

About the Artist

Artist and craftsman Ries Niemi creates sculptures and public installations using industrial fabrication techniques and industrial materials such as metal, wood, and plastics. He lives and works in the small town of Bow, Northwestern Washington.