Artwork copyright Ivan Morrison. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2023.

Artwork copyright Ivan Morrison. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2023.

Artwork copyright Ivan Morrison. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2023.

Coal Creek Series, 1978

Ivan Morrison
American

Location: Reardan High School, Reardan

About the Artwork

Coal Creek Series is an aluminum wall sculpture created by artist Ivan Morrison. It is part of his body of abstract sculptures inspired by the Northwest Mountains. He notes, "The rock formations, glaciers and snow fields of the mountains are inspiring to see and have influenced my work. The use of fabricated aluminum sanded for a reflective surface gives the viewer information about my influences and quality inherent of aluminum. In abstract artwork, it is essential to give the viewer freedom for their own interpretation of the work. The work stands as an object in itself created for aesthetic beauty."

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Reardan-Edwall School District.

About the Artist

Artist Ivan Morrison creates paintings, drawings, and sculpture. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from River Falls State University in Wisconsin in 1964. He earned a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Montana in Missoula in 1967. He has served as an art instructor for secondary schools in Wisconsin, at Arizona Western College in Yuma, and at Portland Community College.