At Home, 1992

D. Maxwell Helppie
(American, born 1926, died 2012)

Location: Ilalko Elementary School, Auburn

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

D. Maxwell Helppie's At Home painting is a playful composition of his pets. The color scheme symbolizes the power dynamics and interactions among the animals during the important ritual of feeding. Thinking about these relationships, Helppie notes "to me, the animals are beautiful and mysterious, and they occupy time and space with an energy of their own that is part of our universe."

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

ABOUT THE ARTIST

The artworks of Dennis Maxwell Helppie (1926-2012) play freely between representation and abstraction. His art was influenced by the mysticism and culture of his Northern Finnish heritage. He noted: "To me, abstraction frees my creative abilities to continually explore new and different approaches to my work. It is very challenging and provides an avenue to stretch my imagination to its fullest."

Helppie grew up in the Detroit area. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps after high school from 1944 to 1947 and in the Army of Occupation in Germany. In 1951, he earned a Bachelors degree in art education with teaching credentials from Eastern Michigan University. In the 1950s, Helppie moved to Washington and taught arts and crafts at Lynnwood Junior High School and worked the afternoon shift at Boeing, where he was as an Inspector and Planner. In 1971, he earned a Master of Education degree in pyschology and counseling from the University of Washington in Seattle. He also taught business courses at Edmonds Community College for thirteen years. Helppie lived, worked, and made art in the Whidbey Island area for over thirty years.

ARTWORK DETAILS
Material CategoryPainting - paint on fabric
MediumAcrylic paint on canvas
Dimensions16 in x 20 in
ID NumberWSAC1993.107.000
Acquisition MethodDirect purchase
Artist LocationWashington, United States
Location Information
AgencyAuburn School District
Artwork LocationIlalko Elementary School
200 wing
WA CountyKing
PlacementInterior
Site TypePublic School
Address301 Oravetz Place SE
Auburn, WA 98092
Geo. Coordinates47.263994, -122.227704
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