Artwork copyright Melissa Madsen. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Chinookies in Space, 2000

Melissa Madsen
American (born 1960)

Location: Browne Elementary School, Spokane

About the Artwork

Chinookies in Space is a whimsical painting by artist Melissa Madsen. Inspired by public discussions about salmon restoration efforts, she asks "what if the earth really became so inhospitable to its species that we decide to jettison them into outer space in hope that they would find new homes where they could thrive?"

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Spokane Public Schools.

About the Artist

Artist and illustrator Melissa Madsen (formerly Melissa Bale) creates artworks inspired by local nature and celebrating childish wonder. Madsen grew up in western Montana where she developed a love for its “pristine wilderness.” She spent some of her career in Eastern Washington before moving back to Montana.