Artwork copyright Judy McMillan. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2017.

Artwork copyright Judy McMillan. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2017.

October Moon, 1984

Judy McMillan
American (born 1952)

Location: Sunset Elementary, Airway Heights

About the Artwork

Artist Judy McMillan's painting October Moon depicts fallen aspen leaves and ponderosa pine needles scattered in an abstract pattern on the forest floor. She notes that Aspen trees grow from a common root that can live for centuries, and are symbolic of interconnectedness, and of "transition and fragility as well as enduring growth." She further notes that the Ponderosa Pine tree is a "symbol of fortitude, toughness and deep roots." Much of McMillan's artwork explores and celebrates the patterns, texture, and forms found in the natural world. She states: "each twig contains a message, each leaf a catechism. Take a walk, mystery surrounds you. Look close, there is a complexity beyond imagination around you."

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

About the Artist

Artist Judy McMillan creates paintings and drawings that combine organic and abstract forms and feature expressive symbols. She lives and works in Cheney, Eastern Washington.