Artwork copyright d'Elaine Johnson. Photo courtesy of the artist.
Unseen Spirits, 2001
d'Elaine Johnson
(American, born 1932)
Location: Lister Elementary School, Tacoma
ABOUT THE ARTWORK
Unseen Spirits is part of artist d'Elaine Johnson's series of paintings that focus on the symbolic power of water. She notes, "My art form ties all life on this planet together in a universal context through the seas, where life began and today connects all as one." The detailed composition suggests fluidity and movement. The mask-forms and patterns reference the body painting motifs of Melanesian peoples of the Southwest Pacific Islands. This ritual of body painting is meant to protect fishermen from unseen spirits.
This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Tacoma School District.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Artist d'Elaine Johnson creates paintings that reflect her interest in the sea and nautical mythology. She developed her imagery based on scuba-diving expeditions.
Born in Puyallup, Western Washington, d'Elaine Johnson earned a Bachelor of Arts degree at Central Washington University in Ellensburg and a Master of Fine Arts degree at the University of Washington in Seattle. She lives and paints in Edmonds, Northwestern Washington.
ARTWORK DETAILS
| Medium | Acrylic paint and other water based media |
| Dimensions | 3 ft x 5 ft |
| ID Number | WSAC2002.272.000 |
| Acquisition Method | Direct purchase |
| Artist Location | Washington, United States |
Location Information
| Agency | Tacoma Public Schools |
| Artwork Location | Lister Elementary School Upper hall |
| WA County | Pierce |
| Placement | Interior |
| Site Type | Public School |
| Address | 2106 E 44th St Tacoma, WA 98404 |
| Geo. Coordinates | 47.216048, -122.399842 |
| Before Visiting | Some artworks may be located in areas not accessible to the general public (especially in K-12 public schools). Consider contacting the site prior to a visit to ensure access. |
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