Artwork copyright Scott Tyler. Photo courtesy of the artist, 1986.

Sea Serpent, 1983

Scott Tyler
American Makah (born 1954)

Location: Office of the Attorney General - Seattle, Seattle

About the Artwork

Sea Serpent is a stylized watercolor painting by Makah artist Scott Tyler. The artist notes that the motif and structure of his imagery is based on traditional Makah and Nuu-chah-nulth designs, while exploring non-traditional colors and materials. This artwork is part of Beyond Blue Mountains, a collection that was curated by late Tlingit (Native Alaskan) artist Jim Schoppert. It presents the work of Native American artists of diverse heritage, ideas, materials, and styles. The collection takes an in-depth look at the artists’ unique voices and interpretations of tradition.

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Office of the Attorney General.

About the Artist

Scott Tyler is a Makah artist and doctor. He studied Museology and American Indian Studies before pursuing a medical degree at the University of Washington in Seattle. He works as a doctor in Bellevue, Western Washington.