Artwork copyright Janet Essley. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Interlude, 2002

Janet Essley
(American, born 1949)

Location: Washington Elementary School, Vancouver

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Interlude is a richly detailed painting by artist Janet Essley. The composition and imagery references a variety of cultural symbols. The artist notes that this painting, created between 2001 and 2002, “became a space from which to contemplate the geopolitical events of the past year.” While Essley notes that she was thinking about human endeavors and hopefulness in times of unrest, she acknowledges that the viewer will create their own interpretation. She welcomes this multiplicity, and notes, “Conversations created by art are one of its essential contributions to human culture.”

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

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Northwest artist Janet Essley creates paintings and public murals. Her imagery is influenced by her work in forestry and biological research, as well as the diverse cultures she encounters while traveling.

Essley earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Oregon and a Master of Fine Arts degreerts in painting and drawing from California State University, Chico.