Artwork copyright Marty Avrett. Photo courtesy of the artist, 1986.

Artwork copyright Marty Avrett. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2023.

Shadow Trap, 1983

Marty Avrett
American Coushatta (Koasati) Choctaw Cherokee (born 1942)

Location: Washington State University, Pullman

About the Artwork

Shadow Trap is a stylized abstract painting by Native American artist Marty Avrett. He notes that his heritage plays a subtle role in the symbolism and motifs found in his imagery. 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 Washington State University.

About the Artist

Oklahoma-based painter and art professor Marty Avrett (Coushatta, Choctaw, Cherokee) creates abstract and representational paintings informed by natural landscapes. About his work, Avrett states "Formally, my concerns have to do with spatial illusions, light and its quality, color and surface. I would classify myself as a colorist who is trying to arrive at a kind of personal truth about the images he makes." He is Professor Emeritus at Oklahoma State University.