Artwork copyright Conrad House. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Kiis'annii # 1, 1995

Conrad House
(American | Navajo-Oneida, born 1956, died 2001)

Location: Harney Elementary, Vancouver

ABOUT THE ARTWORK

'Kiis'annii #1' is part of artist Conrad House's series of expressive drawings that depict the human profile. Starting with a central profile line, this piece explores the border between figuration and abstraction. It combines recognizable features with bold lines and bright geometric shapes. The title refers to the Navajo word for "Pueblo" or "Town Dwellers."

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Vancouver School District.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Artist Conrad House (Navajo and Oneida, 1956-2001) created expressive artworks in multiple mediums, including ceramics, paintings, drawings, and glasswork. In his own words, "What is most important to me is our responsibility to ourselves, each other, animals, plants and other life forms on this living Earth. As our natural world shrinks, so does our ability to maintain a balance with our natural surroundings. What we do now will affect the future and the quality of life to come."

Conrad studied at State University of New York (SUNY) at Johnstown before earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of New Mexico in 1980. He pursued graduate studies at the University of Oregon. He has also spent time at Pilchuck Glass School in Stanwood, Northwestern Washington. His artworks are in the collection of the Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian, Portland Art Museum (0regon), and many more.