Artwork copyright Melissa Singh Cole. Photo courtesy of the artist, 2021.

Artwork copyright Melissa Singh Cole. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, by J.Ferguson, 2021.

Artwork copyright Miguel Maltos Gonzales. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, by J.Ferguson, 2021.

Artwork copyright Miguel Maltos Gonzales. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, by J.Ferguson, 2021.

Living with Ravens, 2021

Melissa Singh Cole
(American, born 1967)

Location: Virginia Grainger Elementary, Okanogan

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Melissa Singh Cole makes art that brings touches of the natural realm to urban settings, helping people reconnect with nature. Her art is an escape for both the viewer and the artist. She notes, “My artworks are dreams, which are filled with emotion, desire, energy and joy. They are a hint of what I wish for this earth.”

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

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Artist Melissa Singh Cole creates public art, mosaic sculptures, and mixed media paintings. Her main inspiration comes from the natural world via her scuba diving adventures and her past work as a naturalist. She is passionate about involving the public in her art process through community-built public art, which instill a sense of pride and ownership.

Cole earned a Bachelor of Science degree in zoology at Oregon State University in Corvallis, with electives in sculpture, figure drawing, and painting. She has worked in the Dominican Republic as a Peace Corps volunteer in a village of artisans and basket weavers. She has written over 30 children’s books and travels extensively with her marine photographer husband. She is based in Spokane, Eastern Washington.