Artwork copyright George Tsutakawa. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2019.

Artwork copyright George Tsutakawa. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2019.

Artwork copyright George Tsutakawa. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2019.

Artwork copyright George Tsutakawa. Original 1979 installation. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission (black and white photo).

Unity, Harmony, Growth, 1978

George Tsutakawa
(American, born 1910, died 1997)

Location: Olympic High School, Bremerton

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Unity, Harmony, Growth was created by late artist George Tsutakawa, a renowned sculptor whose work explored the dynamic relationships between form and material. As the title suggests, the circular, interlocking forms of this piece evoke strength and balance in their connections, and imply that the vertical composition is reaching toward new heights.

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

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Celebrated artist George Tsutakawa (1910-1997), an influential figure in the mid-century Northwest School, created abstract sculptures and fountains for public spaces. His artworks often combine metal materials with flowing water, and his compositions explore the dynamic relationship between natural elements and forms.

Born in Seattle, George Tsutakawa spent his early adolescence in Japan, before returning to the Pacific Northwest at age sixteen. He managed the family produce stand at Rainier Avenue and Jackson Street in Seattle and earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 1937 from the University of Washington. During World War II (1939-45), George was drafted into the U.S. Army and reached the rank of sergeant. He enrolled in graduate school under the GI Bill and completed his Master of Fine Arts degree in sculpture from the University of Washington in 1950. George taught at the University of Washington for more than 37 years, in the Far Eastern Studies Department, the School of Architecture, and the School of Art. He created more than 75 sculptures and fountains, many of which are still on view in North America and Japan. George Tsutakawa was honored with a Washington State Governor's Arts and Heritage Award in 1985.