Artwork copyright Robert Purser. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Artwork copyright Robert Purser. Photo courtesy of the artist (detail).

Hawaii Quilt, 1994

Robert Purser
(American, born 1940, died 2009)

Location: Gold Bar Elementary, Gold Bar

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Artist Robert Purser comprised the mixed-media wall sculpture Hawaii Quilt using found objects, dried plants, and toys acquired while the artist was vacationing on the island of Kauai. These components were assembled with paper cut-outs sewn together to resemble a quilt. Purser stated that his works are meant to explore color and humor. He noted "people often find little social jokes within the arrangements. Those who live with my works tell me that they continue to see new things each time the look at them."

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

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Artist Robert Purser (1940-2009) explored many different materials and processes over his career as an artist and educator. He was known for his work in textiles and for architecturally driven, quilt-like sculptures made of found objects and sewn paper. Bellevue College (in Bellevue, Western Washington) hired him as their first art instructor, and he taught there for forty-four years.
Purser received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Central Washington University. After finishing his undergraduate degree, he served in the Peace Corps doing craft development work in Peru, South America. He then received a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Washington in Seattle in 1966. He received a PhD in architectural education from the University of Oregon in 1978.