The Torch: A Northwest Fire Theft, 2013
Steve Gardner
(American, born 1968)
Location: South Puget Sound Community College, Olympia
ABOUT THE ARTWORK
Steve Gardner’s glass installation The Torch: A Northwest Fire Theft is a Puget Sound version of the Prometheus myth. In Greek mythology, Prometheus steals fire from the gods to give it to humans, an act that allows progress and learning.
In this Puget Sound version of the Prometheus myth, the hero is female and she brings her torch down from Mount Rainier to give fire (and knowledge) to everyone. Above her, in the sky, are constellations of the Puget Sound region: a salmon, a Salish style canoe, and an eagle. The hero is also made up of connected stars, as if she has descended from the night sky. The flame of her torch creates a circle of light, which is filled with symbols of learning and exploration. Many of these symbols relate specifically to the academics of South Puget Sound Community College: farrier’s tools, poetry, the molecular structure of water, Douglas fir cones, a circuit board, a DNA helix, a transmission valve body, and more.
This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with South Puget Sound Community College.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Seattle-based artist Steve Gardner creates relief and free-standing sculptures out of architectural terra cotta clay and other materials. His artworks often focus on the human figure, surface pattern, and a sense of story.
Gardner received his Bachelor of Arts degree in art and biology from St. Olaf College in Minnesota and his Master of Fine Arts degree in ceramics from Central Washington University in Ellensburg.
ARTWORK DETAILS
Material Category | Sculpture - glass |
Medium | Laser-cut aluminum and kiln cast glass |
Dimensions | 26 ft x 27 ft x 1 in (overall) |
ID Number | WSAC2012.020.000 |
Acquisition Method | Site responsive commission |
Artist Location | Washington, United States |
Location Information
Agency | South Puget Sound Community College |
Artwork Location | South Puget Sound Community College Center for Student Success (Building 22), North bay curtain wall |
WA County | Thurston |
Placement | Interior |
Site Type | College |
Address | 2011 Mottman Rd. SW Olympia, WA 98512 |
Geo. Coordinates | 47.023496, -122.929896 |
Before Visiting | Some artworks may be located in areas not accessible to the general public (especially in K-12 public schools). Consider contacting the site prior to a visit to ensure access. |
Map |