RUSSELL DAY- Living Art
2000, time:28:31

"More than anyone, Russell set an example of what it was to live a life that revolved around art." Dale Chihuly

As an art educator for over 30 years, Russell Day influenced the lives of many. Believing the aesthetic experience extends to every aspect of life, he inspired his students to engage all their senses, experience their total environment, and to strive for excellence. Russell Day's teaching had such incredible impact because his subject was much larger than the classroom. It was not about how to make art but how to be an artist.

From 1948 to 1976 he led an innovative art department at Everett Community College that became a model program in the field of post-secondary art education. The rigorous system that he built produced many fine artists including celebrated painter Chuck Close. In his personal art, Day was the first Northwest artist to work experimentally with glass and light modulation. With no literature available, or access to facilities and supplies, he experimented extensively, fusing every kind of glass he could find into monumental concrete walls, glass doors, fountains, lighting and intricate jewelry for the table and body. In this realm he was an early mentor for Dale Chihuly.

This documentary profile is third in the Living Treasures video series, sponsored and produced by Northwest Designer Craftsmen. Living Treasures documents the work, philosophy and achievements of the Northwest's most influential senior craft professionals.

AWARDS
RUSSELL DAY-Living Art

Emerald City ITVA
Gold Award, 2000

CINE Golden Eagle, 2001

Summit Awards
Bronze Award, 2001