By the River, 2020

Susan Aurand
(American, born 1950)

Location: Ancient Lakes Elementary School, Quincy

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Water Gifts is a series of five paintings by artist Susan Aurand. The artworks reflect the importance of water in the history and life of Quincy, in Central Washington. By visually bringing nature into the school, it is an invitation to students to appreciate how much life exists around them. It is also a challenge from the artist to learn more. Aurand notes: “Water is a good metaphor for learning. Education is waters for the mind, allowing new ideas and perspectives to grow and children to flourish.” Aurand did extensive research on the geology of the area, the town of Quincy, and the Columbia Basin Irrigation Project which began in the 1940s.

By the River (part C) highlights the Indigenous Wanapum peoples who have lived near and depended on the Columbia River for thousands of years. “Wanapum” means River People. They have carved their stories into the area’s rocks as petroglyphs.

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

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Artist Susan Aurand is a painter based in Olympia, Washington. She states that her work is "inspired by my passion for nature and my deep interest in symbols, metaphor, memory, and consciousness."
Aurand taught sculpture, ceramics, drawing, painting, art history, and humanities at The Evergreen State College from 1974 to 2018. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Kalamazoo College, Michigan, in 1972 and a Master of Arts degree from Ohio State University in 1974.

ARTWORK DETAILS
MediumAcrylic paint and oil paint on panel and canvas
Dimensions5 ft x 4 ft x 2 in (dimensions variable)
ID NumberWSAC2019.016.00C
Acquisition MethodSite responsive commission
Artist LocationWashington, United States
Location Information
AgencyQuincy School District
Artwork LocationAncient Lakes Elementary School
Library, South wall
WA CountyGrant
PlacementInterior
Site TypePublic School
Address417 C St. SE
Quincy, WA 98848
Geo. Coordinates47.235611, -119.845450
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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