Artwork copyright Steve Jensen. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Artwork copyright Steve Jensen. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Yakima River Carvings, 2002

Steve Jensen
(American, born 1955)

Location: Yakima Valley College, Yakima, WA 98902

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Artist Steve Jensen's trio of sculptures Yakima River Carvings are part of his body of sculptures inspired by the landscapes he has experienced. He uses abstract forms, shapes, and patterns to depict seas, forests, and mountains. He uses only naturally felled trees to create these carvings. He notes, "The abundant beauty of the world's available natural resources and the precariousness of the relationship that we maintain with them inspire me. It is this relationship that powers my Carvings."

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Yakima Valley Community College.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Seattle-based artist Steve Jensen creates carved wooden and metal sculptures. Growing up on his father's fishing boat, his artworks are influenced by Norwegian carving, boat-building, and fishing traditions. He notes, "I come from a long tradition of Norwegian fishermen and boat builders. The chisels I use have been passed from my grandfather to my father to me. The craftsmanship of my work speaks to the universality and the timelessness of carving."