Artwork copyright Mary McIntyre. Photo courtesy of the artist, 1985.

Artwork copyright Mary McIntyre. Photo courtesy of the artist, 1985 (detail).

Artwork copyright Mary McIntyre. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2017.

The Proper Rules of Conduct, 1984

Mary McIntyre
American (born 1943)

Location: Olympic Middle School, Auburn

About the Artwork

The Proper Rules of Conduct is a mixed-media sculpture created by artist Mary McIntyre. Each different material holds a humorous and symbolic meaning. She created the vessel form using dried cow gut to represent "hide-bound tradition," or the unwillingness to change because of tradition. She lined the interior with silk, as a precious material. Chopsticks hang in a straight line within the vessel, and represent rules. Reeds surround the top of the vessel, protecting what is inside. She notes, "If the piece is moved, the chopsticks make a slight noise when disturbed much as those who adhere to rules complain when rules are disturbed."

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

About the Artist

Bellingham, Washington-based artist Mary McIntyre creates fiber and mixed media sculptures.