Jeannette Kirishian

Jeanette Kirishian was a full-time faculty member in the SFCC Art Department from 1974-2013, and Printmaking instructor at Gonzaga University for eight years. In addition to exhibiting locally, she has shown in New York, Iowa, Utah, Idaho, Oregon and Japan. Her travels have included Armenia, Italy, Mexico, Africa, and The United Arab Emirates. She holds a BA and MAT from Whitworth University with Honors in Art. She received a MA and MFA in Printmaking from the University of Iowa, under renowned printmaker, Mauricio Lasansky in 1984.

Artist statement:
This show pays homage to a few of nature’s keystone species.
Keystone species are those that are vital to the health and enrichment of specific environments. For example studies have shown that in certain environments Beaver dams help control waters that would otherwise cause flooding, and create water ponds by slowing down the movement of water during very wet periods. They also maintaining streams and ponds during times of drought for the benefit of humans and other species.
Bison on the Great Plains fertilize the soil and lightly cultivate it as they move across the land, increasing the abundance of native grass species and the seeds that can germinate to the benefit of native birds, mammals and insects and ultimately humans.
Sea Otters help control Invasive species like purple urchins and European crab by including them in their diet. Otherwise these would decimate native ones through overpopulation and by depletion of kelp beds that are food and protection to indigenous species.