Artwork copyright Ries Niemi. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission.

Artwork copyright Ries Niemi. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission.

Artwork copyright Ries Niemi. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission.

Bugs & Tools Mirror, 1994

Ries Niemi
American (born 1955)

Location: Wenatchee Valley College, Wenatchee

About the Artwork

Artist Reis Niemi created Bugs & Tools Mirror by first drawing all of the individual images. He used images of bugs and tools from magazines and books. He then traced all of his images to scale on a big piece of paper. This paper became the pattern for a Plasma Cutting Torch, which he used to cut the image from steel. He notes, "I am attracted to the traditional role of a craftsman in society, to make sturdy attractive pieces that will last. Of course, I also try to give them a personality, to make them unique and different. I like my work to be a little humorous, so that it can be approached and enjoyed."

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Wenatchee Valley College.

About the Artist

Artist and craftsman Ries Niemi creates sculptures and public installations using industrial fabrication techniques and industrial materials such as metal, wood, and plastics. He lives and works in the small town of Bow, Northwestern Washington.