Artwork copyright Garth Edwards. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Artwork copyright Garth Edwards. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Artwork copyright Garth Edwards. Photo courtesy of the artist (detail).

Artwork copyright Garth Edwards. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Artwork copyright Garth Edwards. Photo courtesy of the artist (detail).

Artwork copyright Garth Edwards. Photo courtesy of the artist (detail).

Artwork copyright Garth Edwards. Photo courtesy of the artist (detail).

Artwork copyright Garth Edwards. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Artwork copyright Garth Edwards. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Artwork copyright Garth Edwards. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Artwork copyright Garth Edwards. Photo courtesy of the artist (detail).

Artwork copyright Garth Edwards. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Paradise, 2009

Garth Edwards
American (born 1950, died 2021)

Location: White Bluffs Elementary, Richland

About the Artwork

Paradise is a folk-themed, cut aluminium, relief sculpture by Garth Edwards. It is meant to inspire wonder and spark the imagination. Both real and fantastical versions of wildlife in the Columbia River Basin are featured. The area is home to White Bluffs Elementary in Richland, Southeastern Washington. The local art selection committee at White Bluffs met over several months, beginning in December 2007. The committee established criteria that included the environment, the history of the area, whimsy, and education.

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

About the Artist

Northwest artist Garth Edwards (1950-2021) created playful, figurative works on paper, sculptures, and installations. In his own words, "An artist often has to wander, looking for what is meaningful." He worked mainly in metal and stained glass.

Edwards grew up in Portland, Oregon, and studied glassblowing at Portland State University in Oregon and at Pilchuck Glass School in Stanwood, Northwestern Washington. He taught at Portland Community College and the Oregon School of Arts and Crafts (both in Oregon), and worked full-time as an artist since 1980.