Artwork copyright Ray A. Cheer. Photo courtesy of the artist, 1985.

Artwork copyright Ray A. Cheer. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2017.

Grandfather Stick, 1983-1984

Ray A. Cheer
(American | Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation | Nooksack, born 1957)

Location: Washington State University, Pullman

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

Native American artist Ray A. Cheer hand-carved Grandfather Stick from elm wood found near his home in Omak, WA. Cheer notes that the imagery is inspired by photographs of his grandfather.

This artwork is part of Beyond Blue Mountains, a collection that was curated by late Tlingit (Native Alaskan) artist Jim Schoppert. It presents the work of Native American artists of diverse heritage, ideas, materials, and styles. The collection takes an in-depth look at the artists’ unique voices and interpretations of tradition.

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Department of Corrections.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Native American artist Ray A. Cheer (Colville and Nooksack) creates hand-carved sculptures influenced by Coast Salish designs. He is of Colville (Northeastern Washington) and Nooksack (Northwestern Washington) heritage.