Artwork copyright Douglas Senft. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Large Leaf No. 11 (gary oak 2), 1999

Douglas Senft
(Canadian, born 1950, died 2012)

Location: Truman Middle School, Tacoma

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Large Leaf No. 11 (gary oak 2) is part of artist Douglas Senft's body of steel leaves. He forms the leaves using a cutting torch and welding. He describes these sculptures as "artifacts of nature" that respond to the structure, elements, and spaces of the environment around him. He notes, "The materials I work with, have (an implied) permanence that contrasts to the ephemeral nature of the sources of the imagery. It is my intent this contrast will draw attention to the preciousness and precariousness of these resources."

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

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Late artist Douglas Senft (1950-2012) created public sculptures, architectural accessories, and art furniture fabricated from welded steel. Senft's sculptures are inspired by the natural landscapes. He noted, "I work from my responses to the various environments around me; from the intimacy of the flora, the vastness of geography, to the sound of the wind through the cottonwood."

Senft graduated from the Vancouver School of Art (now known as the Emily Carr University of Art and Design) in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, in 1972.