Artwork copyright Justen Ladda. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission.

Artwork copyright Justen Ladda. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission.

La Cuisine after Arcimboldo, 1993

Justen Ladda
German (born 1953)

Location: Department of Labor and Industries, Tumwater

About the Artwork

Artist Justen Ladda's La Cuisine after Arcimboldo is inspired by an ink drawing by the 17th century artist Guiseppe Arcimboldo. He was known for his imaginative portraits that were made completely of images such as fruits, vegetables, flowers, fish, books, and more. When you look closely, this figure is comprised of kitchen utensils. This artwork is part of a series of site-specific installations by artist Justen Ladda for seven Department of Labor and Industries sites. The seven artworks are broadly inspired by labor and industry in Washington State.

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Department of Labor and Industries.

About the Artist

Artist Justen Ladda creates imaginative conceptual sculptures and public art installations. Ladda grew up in West Germany, and studied art in Germany and at the Brooklyn Museum Art School (1978-80). He lives and works in New York City.