Artwork copyright Phil Brazeau. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission.

Cure for Optimism, 1994

Phil Brazeau
American (born 1952)

Location: Dayton Elementary School, Dayton

About the Artwork

Cure for Optimism is a brightly colored and whimsical paper sculpture created by artist Phil Brazeau. To make the images, he molded wet rice paper around dolls, fruit, and toys. Once dry, the paper held the shape of each object, painted and arranged in what he calls a “tossed salad fashion.” He notes, “The end result for me is one of contrast between the Pollyanna like doll figures and the hoard of bugs running over them. It seems reminiscent of a pile of toys left on the floor or perhaps discarded thoughts or dreams being reclaimed by nature as in a compost heap.”

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

About the Artist

Seattle-based artist Phil Brazeau creates humorous and expressive artworks inspired by vintage illustrations and folk art.