Uncommon Friends, 2022

Roger Stoller
(American, born 1954)

Location: Wilson Elementary School, Spokane

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Uncommon Friends by Roger Stoller is inspired by the bonded and compassionate relationships of animals. The sculpture’s intricate, metal-lace surface shows stories of different species becoming lifelong friends. For example, look for a fox and a rooster who are nuzzled up together. These stories are about tolerance, inclusion, and love. Stoller notes that “teaching our human youngsters about these uncanny relationships opens the door to a more sympathetic approach toward those who are different from ourselves.” The sculpture also includes circular patterns that symbolize the ever-expanding knowledge taking place within the school and beyond as students graduate.

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Spokane Public Schools.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Roger Stoller is a sculptor working mainly in bronze and stone, and sometimes also using light and water.
As a young man in his twenties, Stoller worked as a personal assistant for the futurist Buckminster Fuller, who popularized the geodesic dome. This led him to meet Fuller’s friend, the sculptor Isamu Noguchi. Stoller’s thinking and approach to art have been deeply shaped by his relationship with these two men. In 1981, he earned a design degree from the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California. After 15 years in design, he studied sculpture and foundry techniques at San José State University, California. He has worked full-time as a sculptor since 2001.

ARTWORK DETAILS
MediumStainless steel
Dimensions13 ft x 6 ft 6 in x 5 ft
ID NumberWSAC2020.016.000
Acquisition MethodSite responsive commission
Artist LocationCalifornia, United States
Location Information
AgencySpokane Public Schools
Artwork LocationWilson Elementary School
Exterior sidewalk, NE corner of 25th and Lincoln
WA CountySpokane
PlacementInterior
Site TypePublic School
Address200 N. Bernard St.
Spokane, WA 99201
Geo. Coordinates47.631662, -117.425104
Before VisitingSome artworks may be located in areas not accessible to the general public (especially in K-12 public schools). Consider contacting the site prior to a visit to ensure access.
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