Artwork copyright Gera Lozano and Werc Alvarez. Photo courtesy of Davis High School, 2021.

Artwork copyright Gera Lozano and Werc Alvarez. Photo courtesy of Davis High School, 2021.

Artwork copyright Gera Lozano and Werc Alvarez. Photo courtesy of Davis High School, 2021.

Joule of the Valley, 2021

Gera Lozano and Werc Alvarez
Gera Lozano (American, born 1981); Werc Alvarez (American, born 1980)

Location: Davis High School, Yakima

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Joule of the Valley by Gera Lozano and Werc Alvarez is inspired by the importance of agriculture in the Yakima Valley of Central Washington and the important role that Davis High School has played in Yakima’s history. The apple is referenced as a symbol of knowledge. The artists note that, “We are harvesting knowledge and ideas that will propel us into the future. Davis High School is a place where young minds receive information, where the seeds are planted for the next generation of idea makers.” The artists translated the landscape’s orchard plots and farming rows into an op-art background. They also note that the painting “reflects the beauty of agriculture from both micro and macro perspectives. The fecundity, the sweetness of the fruits, and fresh abundance are translated into the colorful lush design.”

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

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Artists Gera Lozano and Werc Alvarez work together to create public art that is about the beautification of public spaces, community empowerment, and art as a healing tool.
Gera “GERALUZ” Lozano is a conceptual and public artist based out of Brooklyn, New York.
Jari "WERC" Alvarez is a graffiti and public artist who was born in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico and raised in Texas. He is currently based out of Brooklyn, New York.