“I hope they are inspired to figure out their own way of expressing themselves.”
On Thursday, Linwood Elementary School students, staff, and special guests celebrated the dedication of a new piece of art, “Flowering Tree,” which was created and installed by artist Paul Sorey at their school this summer. He shared his creative process, and using science and math to create art, in a video that students watched during an assembly.
“A tree climbs towards the sky, finding opportunities for growth among architectural elements. Atop the branches are glass flower buds of different colors. An elementary school is a place to grow, where children can find their way and ultimately express their unique selves,” reads the plaque for the art piece that is made of stainless steel, cast glass, and LED lights.
The piece was commissioned by the Washington State Arts Commission. Each major construction project that receives state funds, like public school buildings, also qualifies for a WSAC "Art in Public Places" grant. The replacement of Linwood Elementary School, completed in 2019, was made possible through the voter-supported 2015 bond.
Spokane Public Schools has one of the largest collections of public art works of any school district in Washington state.