Artwork copyright Jo Hockenhull. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Artwork copyright Jo Hockenhull. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2017.

LOVE? (Past and Present), 1992

Jo Hockenhull
American (born 1942)

Location: Woodland Elementary, Puyallup

About the Artwork

LOVE? (Past and Present) is part of artist Jo Hockenhull’s series of layered screen prints exploring the many meanings of the word love. This piece features many images, including a heart, human hand, and golden ring to symbolize love and promise. They contrast with other images including handcuffs, household tools, and scientific illustrations. Two silver birds form the top layer of the composition, symbolizing honor and hope, past and present. The artist notes, “The configuration is mandala-like to encourage the viewers to spend time with the piece, connecting each detail and symbol to their own experiences.” 

A mandala is a circular symbol with rings of intricate and symmetrical patterns. In Buddhism and other Eastern religions, the mandala represents the universe, wholeness, and totality. It is used for meditation as its detailed layers encourage you to look closely, focusing your thoughts. 

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

About the Artist

Jo Hockenhull is a painter, printmaker, illustrator, and educator. She states that her work "explores connections that human beings seem to need with the past, the future and the natural world."
Hockenhull joined the faculty of Washington State University in Pullman, Eastern Washington, in 1972. She started the printmaking program in the Fine Arts Department that year, and later headed the Women's Studies program (1986-1996). She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Knox College in Illinois in 1963 and her Master of Arts degree from the University of Iowa in 1966. She now lives in Oregon.