ABOUT THE ARTWORK
Gonakadet is a cast paper artwork created by non-Native artist Barry Herem. The composition is inspired by the traditional designs and oral history of Native American coastal cultures in the Pacific Northwest.
Herem notes that the Gonakadet myth is "found among the Tsimshian, Tlingit and Haida peoples [of British Columbia and Alaska] and concerns the story of a sea-monster who is a transformed human being. It is a complex and varied story, but for modem people the sighting of Gonakadet (or Konakadeit) either in his monster form, or in the form of his splendid undersea house which sometimes rises above the waters, means the acquisition of wealth and good fortune."
This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Toppenish School District.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Northwest artist Barry Herem creates sculptures inspired by the forms and symbolism found in the Native American artistic traditions of the Pacific Northwest Coast. Herem is a non-Native artist.
ARTWORK DETAILS
Medium | Cast paper |
Dimensions | 20 1/2 in x 35 in x 2 in |
ID Number | WSAC1998.107.000 |
Acquisition Method | Direct purchase |
Artist Location | Washington, United States |
Location Information
Agency | Toppenish School District |
Artwork Location | Toppenish High School Room 721, Art room |
WA County | Yakima |
Placement | Interior |
Site Type | Public School |
Address | 141 Ward Rd Toppenish, WA 98948 |
Geo. Coordinates | 46.381348, -120.334659 |
Before Visiting | Some 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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