Artwork copyright Maria Coryell-Martin. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Artwork copyright Maria Coryell-Martin. Photo courtesy of the artist, by Wiseknave, 2020.

Artwork copyright Maria Coryell-Martin. Photo courtesy of the artist, by Wiseknave, 2020.

Following the Light: Day (Arctic Terns), 2012

Maria Coryell-Martin
(American, born 1982)

Location: Salish Coast Elementary, Port Townsend

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Maria Coryell-Martin’s artworks are based on art and science. ‘Following the Light: Day (Arctic Terns)’ inspires us to learn about our global environment. She became interested in Arctic terns after observing and sketching them in both the Arctic and Antarctica and learning that every year, they migrate over 45,000 miles. She notes that as they travel through so many countries and continents, “these birds are true global citizens—an emblem for climate change awareness and environmental stewardship.” They rely on the food and other resources of every country on their migration route.

Maria Coryell-Martin is a local Port Townsend artist who lives on the same street as Salish Coast Elementary School.

This artwork is part of a curated collection by Lele Barnett at Salish Coast Elementary School, on the Olympic Peninsula in Northwest Washington. The site is also a public library, YMCA, and an active town gathering place. The local art selection committee wanted the students and community to be excited about artists in and from their region. They also asked for fun and dramatic art that is colorful enough to brighten grey-sky days.

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

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Maria Coryell-Martin's art practice is part of a tradition of travelling artists, naturalists, and educators. She sketches and takes recordings in the field to capture landscapes, especially in the polar regions and on glaciers. Her work in the field serves to “build my palette of place, a record of experience, climate, and color.” She then returns to her studio and turns her sketches into paintings. She notes, “I believe in art as a tool for exploration, observation, and scientific inquiry.”
Maria Coryell-Martin is based in Port Townsend, on the Olympic Peninsula in Northwest Washington. She received a degree in studio art from Carleton College in Minnesota.