Artwork copyright William Winden. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Artwork copyright William Winden. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Forest Clearing, 1993

William Winden
(American, born 1931, died 2009)

Location: Washington State Arts Commission, Olympia

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Late artist William Winden's vivid watercolor Forest Clearing seeks to capture the rich beauty and emotional resonance of the natural environment. Music served as an organizing element and influence in the creation of this piece. Winden expressed the hope that his "depiction of the experience of nature, its forms, colors and textures, suggests elemental human qualities and emotions of the kind which might also be communicated through music and literature. "

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

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Northwest artist William Winden (1931-2009) created expressive landscape paintings and prints. Winden grew up in Tacoma in Western Washington, swimming and boating on Puget Sound, and hiking in Washington state's woods and mountains, eventually climbing to the summit of Mount Rainier. He believed that “stories are told by music and art, often in a way of which words are incapable.” His artworks communicate the beauty, strength, and fragility of the natural world.