Artwork copyright Melissa Madsen. Photo courtesy of the artist.

What's in The Air, 1990

Melissa Madsen
American (born 1960)

Location: Cougar Valley Elementary, Silverdale

About the Artwork

'What's in the Air' is a richly colorful and detailed painting by artist Melissa Madsen. Populated by different manmade objects, natural forms, plants and animals, this piece examines our busy daily lives and our relationship to the natural world. Madsen notes "I consider my paintings to be narrative and whimsical. I approach my work in a lighthearted way in an effort to project the joy one can feel when actively participating in an environment that is not destroyed."

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

About the Artist

Artist and illustrator Melissa Madsen (formerly Melissa Bale) creates artworks inspired by local nature and celebrating childish wonder. Madsen grew up in western Montana where she developed a love for its “pristine wilderness.” She spent some of her career in Eastern Washington before moving back to Montana.