Client: Valley K-8 School, Washington St Arts Commission

Overview

Blue Ribbon Livin’ was commissioned by the Washington State Arts Commission for the Valley School in Valley, WA. It is fabricated using Kiln formed art glass, copper and aluminum. Overall size: 14 ft w x 10 ft h.

Goals

The placement of the work is in the entryway foyer of the school. The goals were to create a piece that reflects the spirit of the region, community and school. Given that students are the primary audience the imagery had to be something they could relate to and ultimately inspire them to dream and achieve. Use of the blue ribbon nods to the county fair ideal of highest achievement.

Process

Valley school is situated in a rural setting. After meeting with the selection committee and Arts Commission I spent a few days in the community getting a better sense of the locale and the community. We discussed several site options and themes before the design process began. I presented this design to the committee and they enthusiastically embraced endorsed the overall concept, materials and theme. With very minor revisions I proceeded with the fabrication.