Object Record
Images
Metadata
Object Name |
Carving |
Collection |
Metro Parks Tacoma - Permanent Collection |
Date |
1993 |
Description |
Inside the Tacoma Nature Center at Snake Lake, visitors are welcomed by displays of pond life and marsh creatures as well as wildlife-themed artwork. Several wood carvings give the space a warmth and character that appeal to nature-lovers of all ages. One of the largest sculptures in the Nature Center is a 7-foot-tall vertical wooden carving, its flowing lines suggesting the outstretched wings and head of an owl swooping downward. A dedication plaque on the base reads: "Spirit of the Protector, by Leo E. Osborne, 1993, This sculpture was made possible by a grant from the Weyerhaeuser Company Foundation, The Western Red Cedar 'blowdown' log was donated by the YMCA of Tacoma-Pierce County, Camp Seymour". The artist, Leo E. Osborne, originally hails from Massachusetts, and has long been inspired by the natural world. He explores themes of nature and spirit in his art, primarily through sculpture and painting. This wooden carving reflects those interests by using a Northwest medium (carved red cedar) and subject (many birds such as owls call the forests of the Pacific Northwest home). Mr. Osborne moved to the Pacific Northwest in 1990, and continues to create art in the San Juan Islands today. |
Location |
Tacoma Nature Center |
Object Number |
TNC-005 |
Creator |
Leo Osborne |
Web link |
Metro Parks Tacoma, Tacoma Nature Center |