Artwork copyright Jo Fyfe. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission.

Looking Back, 2001

Jo Fyfe
(American, born 1941)

Location: Washington State Arts Commission, Granite Falls

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Artist Jo Fyfe's observations of nature inspired her painting Looking Back . She created it as part of a faculty exhibit at Spokane Falls Community College. The composition suggests a spinning wheel or game board like chess or backgammon. She notes, "Crows and ravens have always been in my path from as far North as Alaska, as far South as Arizona and New Mexico, as well as in my own backyard in Spokane. Much has been written in myths and legends from cultures throughout the world. Many portray the crow and the raven as a bird to fear, a trickster or a bearer of misfortune. But, not here, these three are game pieces, like pawns or chessman… It is hoped that as you look at the playfulness of this image and the awkwardness of the birds, that you will chuckle. May it also give you a sense of peace and optimism, knowing that life is a game? This circle is inherent in all of my work; it defines a unity of life for all peoples, past, present and future."

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

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Spokane, Eastern Washington-based artist Jo Fyfe explores color, texture, and narrative using a variety of materials and found objects.

Born in Omak, Northeastern Washington, Jo Fyfe's artworks are influenced by the heritage of Native American cultures of the interior Pacific Northwest. She earned her Master in Fine Arts degree from Washington State University in Pullman, Eastern Washington, and taught art for many years at Spokane Falls Community College.