Artwork copyright Willie Birch. Photo courtesy of the artist.

If You Don't Know Where You Come From, How Do You Know Where You Are Going?, 1988

Willie Birch
American (born 1942)

Location: Bethel High School, Spanaway

About the Artwork

‘If You Don’t Know Where You Come From, How Do You Know Where You Are Going?’ is an autobiographical painting by artist Willie Birch. It is part of a series of paintings and sculptures called “A Personal History of Urban America.” He notes that the idea for this painting comes from his experience teaching an art workshop for elementary school students called “Our History, Our Heritage.” The title of this painting comes from a proverb from Ghana, Africa. The artist notes, “This proverb underscores the need to understand our personal and collective history.” The artist-made frame is decorated with relief images that "speak to all peoples who inhabit this place called 'The Americas.'"

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

About the Artist

Willie Birch works in a variety of mediums including drawing, painting, and sculpture. He was born in New Orleans and draws inspiration from his native city and the African American experience. He notes, “A major function of my art is to serve as a historical record of my times. My work is rooted in the notion that art can provoke social change.”
Birch earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and a Master of Fine Arts degree in Art Education from the Maryland Institute College of Art. In 2004, he was honored with the Governor’s Award from the State of Louisiana. He continues to live and work in New Orleans.