Artwork copyright Ryan Molenkamp. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Artwork copyright Ryan Molenkamp. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, by Alan Ayers of Make Northwest, 2020.

Artwork copyright Ryan Molenkamp. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, by Alan Ayers of Make Northwest, 2020.

Artwork copyright Ryan Molenkamp. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, by Alan Ayers of Make Northwest, 2020.

Iztaccihuatl, 2018

Ryan Molenkamp
(American, born 1977)

Location: Harriet Rowley Elementary, Mount Vernon

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Artist Ryan Molenkamp’s painting Iztaccihuatl portrays a dormant volcanic mountain near Mexico City. It is Mexico's third highest peak, with an elevation of 17,159 feet (5,230 meters). Molenkamp is interested the landscape and the geology of volcanoes, especially those that are near major cities. He notes “Nature constantly reminds us of our insignificance and when we ignore the world we live in, bad things happen. When painting I’m thinking about our shortsightedness when we develop the land and our exhausting of the natural resources of this planet.”

This artwork is part of a curated collection by Kathleen Garrett at Harriet Rowley Elementary School, in Mount Vernon, Northwestern Washington. The local art selection committee wanted these artworks to reflect the local landscape and the spirit of adventure and possibility of Harriet Rowley, the school’s namesake. “Mother Rowley” (1880-1965) was a nurse from Ohio who opened the first hospital in Mount Vernon in 1920. She is remembered for her indomitable spirit and her desire to help others.

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

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Seattle artist Ryan Molenkamp creates graphic representations of the mountains and volcanoes of the Pacific Northwest. He combines geology, topographical data, and digital technology with intense colors and mind-bending perspectives. The scenes suggest a sense of place and wonder.
Molenkamp earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Western Washington University in Bellingham, Northwestern Washington.