Artwork copyright Helen Bitar. Photo courtesy of the artist, 1985.

Moon Mountain, 1982

Helen Bitar
American (born 1940)

Location: Olalla Elementary School, Port Orchard

About the Artwork

Moon Mountain is a colorful fine art quilt created by artist Helen Bitar. The imagery references two Pacific Northwest volcanos, as well as the Egyptian pyramids in Africa. Mount St. Helens erupted in 1980, while Mount Hood has not erupted in over 150 years. This quilt combines the mountain motif with images of the moon. The moon influences many earth systems. Scientists question whether the lunar cycle influences volcanic activity.

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

About the Artist

Helen Bitar is a Pacific Northwest fiber artist. She creates fine art quilts. Born in Centralia, Washington, she received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Washington in Seattle in 1964. She has taught at many institutions including the University of Montana, The New School for Social Research in New York City, and Portland State University.