Artwork copyright Cheri O'Brien. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Artwork copyright Cheri O'Brien. Photo courtesy of the artist (detail).

Artwork copyright Cheri O'Brien. Photo courtesy of the artist (detail).

Artwork copyright Cheri O'Brien. Photo courtesy of the artist (detail).

Artwork copyright Cheri O'Brien. Photo courtesy of the artist (detail).

Artwork copyright Cheri O'Brien. Photo courtesy of the artist (detail).

Artwork copyright Cheri O'Brien. Photo courtesy of the artist (detail).

Artwork copyright Cheri O'Brien. Photo courtesy of the artist (detail).

The Jewel of Silver Lake, 2013

Cheri O'Brien
American (born 1958)

Location: Silver Lake Elementary, Everett

About the Artwork

This glass mural by artist Cheri O'Brien celebrates life around Silver Lake Elementary School in Everett, in Northwest Washington. The windows show children of all ages enjoying the beauty and activities of the area, such as horseback riding, boating, and the waterfront of Puget Sound. O'Brien herself attended the second grade at Silver Lake Elementary School in 1965 and continues to live in the area.

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

About the Artist

Northwest artist Cheri O'Brien creates quirky and humorous narrative folk-compositions. She uses many different materials, including oil painting, paper-mache sculpture, and painted glass. In her own words, "My paintings are reflections of my life as an artist, mother, and observer. I attempt to understand my world with finding humor in beauty and the beauty of humor."