They Came in a Thick Swarm, 1995

Elissa Greisz
(American, born 1939)

Location: Washington State Arts Commission, Everett

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

They Came in a Thick Swarm is an intricate and elaborate mixed-media wall sculpture by artist Elissa Greisz, comprised of layers of iridescent foil, painted aluminum, and glitter. The symmetrical composition references shimmering insect wings, and is inspired by tattoo designs and illustrations from science fiction. Greisz notes that this piece explores "the underlying beauty of the dark. The work is very subterranean... but underneath there is that beauty , and the light and the hope."

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

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Elissa Greisz is a Port Townsend, Washington-based artist who creates abstract mixed-media wall sculptures, paintings, and weavings. Her work emphasizes intricate patterns. She notes “I borrow from Byzantine art, my Mexican heritage, sci-fi illustrations, other art, ornamentation, jewelry and tattoos. And the transformation of inert materials becomes my modern-day alchemy.”
Greisz studied at the University of California, Santa Barbara. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Visual Art and Anthropology from the University of California, Los Angeles. She moved to Washington State in 1983.

ARTWORK DETAILS
Material CategorySculpture - coated metals
MediumMixed media with recycled aluminum
Dimensions56 in x 39 in x 3 in
ID NumberWSAC2003.004.000
Acquisition MethodDirect purchase
Artist LocationWashington, United States
Location Information
AgencyMukilteo School District
Artwork LocationWashington State Arts Commission
Not on display. At ArtsWA pending conservation, framing, re-siting, or return to site.
WA CountySnohomish
PlacementInterior
Site TypePublic School
Address200 120 St. SW
Everett, WA 98204
Geo. Coordinates47.888286, -122.237316
Before VisitingSome 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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