Dennis Evans
born Moxee, Washington, 1946
Person TypeIndividual
Terms
- Moxee City
- Seattle
born Yakima, Washington, 1911; died Los Angeles, California, 1959
born Honolulu, Hawaii, 1950; died San Francisco, California, 1994
BiographyDennis Evans is one of a group of University of Washington art students from the mid-1970s who reinvigorated the regional artist community. Starting as a chemistry student, Evans then discovered ceramics and began working on a BFA at the University of Washington where he also earned his MFA. In the late 1970s Evans combined his interests in ceramics, philosophy, mythology, and art into ritual performances. These events quickly captured local and national attention and led to his inclusion in the 1978 Whitney Biennial. In addition to his performances, he has made a career creating installations and mixed media works that incorporate both painting and sculpture and include layers of objects, text, and symbols. His works are included in collections across the Northwest as well as the Museum of Modern Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York.