Harvest of the Land

by Joan Jackson
clay 74 x 54

As evidenced by these important commissions, Jackson is one of the state’s most prolific and sought-after sculptors. This Cordova artist has contributed much to the historical memory of the state. Also included in her catalogue are the The Russian-Alaskan Friendship Plaque, commemorating the 250th Anniversary of Vitus Bering’s Landing; the Alexander Baranof stature in Sitka (1989); the Anchorage Veterans Memorial (2001); the Father of the Iditarod (2003) in Wasilla, depicting Joe Redington, Sr. who is credited with starting the famous dogsled race, as well as other commissions in Cordova and around the state.

Her work is known for its striking likeness to her subject, as can be seen here in the two busts. The two clay-fired plaques in the lobby depict two aspects of the Alaska life, harvesting the bounty that nature provides. Her compositions are strong and fluid, depicting action in a solid form.

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