Artwork copyright Linda Kraus-Perez. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Artwork copyright Linda Kraus-Perez. Photo courtesy of the artist (detail).

Chimera, 1990

Linda Kraus-Perez
(American, born 1947)

Location: Ridge View Elementary, Kennewick

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Chimera is a mixed-media painting by artist Linda Kraus-Perez. It is part of her body of richly detailed abstract paintings. This piece is filled with colorful forms and energetic marks. The title refers to a creature in Greek mythology that breathes fire and has the head of a lion, the body of a goat, and the tail of a snake. She notes, "References for this piece come from the viewpoint of a child, the kinds of images the waking consciousness of a child may see. References for the images were kites and dragons. However, they are not literally represented in the work, but more the essence of the character and movements those objects would display, their personality and behavior more evident in the painting than being defined by a literal representation."

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

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Linda Kraus Perez is a Spokane, Washington-based artist and teacher. She creates abstract paintings that incorporate mixed-media materials. She tauch art at Spokane Falls Community College from 1993 to 2012. She receieved Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Easter Washington University and a Master of Fine Art degree from Claremont Graduate School in 1992.