Artwork copyright Ruth Brockmann. Photo courtesy of the artist.

A Different Drummer, 1997

Ruth Brockmann
(American, born 1955, died 2013)

Location: Port Susan Middle Sc hool, Stanwood

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Late glass artist Ruth Brockmann composed the mask A Different Drummer with bright, colorful forest and bird imagery. This piece was created in celebration of the Pileated Woodpecker and the interconnectedness of all life. Brockmann notes that in folklore the bird was "associated with magic and was believed to have prophetic powers. It has been regarded by many people as bringing protection and good fortune."

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

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Ruth Brockmann (1955-2013) was a leader in the Northwest kiln-formed glass movement. She created fused-glass sculptures that celebrated and explored our spiritual connection to the natural world.

Ruth Brockman was one of the initial artists in the 1980s to work and experiment with Bullseye Glass Company's colored glass for fusing. She has taught glass fusing at the Pilchuck Glass School in Stanwood, Northwestern Washington, as well as around the United States and Canada. Her experimental, do-it-yourself art practice is heavily influenced by her experiences farming in Alaska and Washington, working on commercial fishing boats, traveling in Mexico, and Mother Nature.