Artwork copyright Dixie Friend Gay. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Artwork copyright Dixie Friend Gay. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Reality's Illusion, 2017

Dixie Friend Gay
American (born 1953)

Location: Jackson Park Elementary School, Bremerton

About the Artwork

Reality's Illusion by Dixie Friend Gay is one of seven colorful mosaic panels inspired by the different ecosystems of the Olympic Peninsula in Northwestern Washington. They include details of nature that you might not see with the naked eye, including cells and organisms as seen under a microscope. The artist notes, "The panels are rich in texture with hidden elements, unique shapes, and images to be discovered by students and adults alike."

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

About the Artist

Houston, Texas-based artist Dixie Friend Gay creates paintings, mosaic murals, and sculptures for public places. Her artworks examine the natural world while playing with perspective, scale, and vibrant color.

Dixie Friend Gay grew up on a cattle ranch in Oklahoma. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Art Education from Northwestern Oklahoma State University and a Master of Arts degree in Studio Arts from New York University. She moved to Houston in 1989 where she now lives and works.