Artwork copyright Terry Furchgott. Photo courtesy of the artist, by Sean Griffin.

Artwork copyright Terry Furchgott. Photo courtesy of the artist, by Sean Griffin.

Artwork copyright Terry Furchgott. Photo courtesy of the artist, by Sean Griffin (detail).

Artwork copyright Terry Furchgott. Photo courtesy of the artist, by Sean Griffin.

Artwork copyright Terry Furchgott. Photo courtesy of the artist, by Sean Griffin.

Artwork copyright Terry Furchgott. Photo courtesy of the artist, by Sean Griffin.

Artwork copyright Terry Furchgott. Photo courtesy of the artist, by Sean Griffin.

Artwork copyright Terry Furchgott. Photo courtesy of the artist, by Sean Griffin.

Artwork copyright Terry Furchgott. Photo courtesy of the artist, by Sean Griffin.

Artwork copyright Terry Furchgott. Photo courtesy of the artist, by Sean Griffin.

Artwork copyright Terry Furchgott. Photo courtesy of the artist, by Sean Griffin.

Wings Around the World, 2011

Terry Furchgott
(American, born 1948)

Location: Chief Umtuch Elementary, Battle Ground

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

The seven main parts of the Wings Around the World by Terry Furchgott hanging mobile illustrate key units from the history curriculum of grades 5-8. They include the Native American tribes who first settled the Battle Ground area in southwestern Washington, European explorers and pioneers, medieval Europe (approximately 450-1450), and the more ancient cultures of Asia (Japan), Meso-America (Mexico, Peru, Guatemala), Africa (Egypt), and the Middle East (Babylon, Assyria, Mesopotamia). There are six additional circular pieces that represent the sun, new moon, full moon, American flag, the planet Earth, and the Milky Way galaxy. Furchgott notes that "the connection with their ongoing studies ensures that students will come to understand the imagery in greater depth as they move up in age and grade."

The mobile is 20 feet high and 12 feet wide, and the parts are all perfectly balanced against each other. Steel swivels are attached to the main hanger of each of the seven parts. This allows them to spin in place for a full 360 degrees and also to move around each other.

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

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Artist Terry Furchgott creates richly colorful figurative paintings, murals, and installations that explore the dynamics of human relationships and communities.
Furchgott received an honors degree in art history from Radcliffe College, Harvard University in Massachusetts, and studied at Camden Arts Center in London, England.