Eyes on the Prize

Giclee

Edition 99

Released November 2007

SOLD OUT

We all have our own pursuits, our own goals and ambitions. We bury ourselves in these interests, hoping for that promotion at work or that reward from that game. This determination in setting goals and achieving them is one of the many things that make us human. For many of us, though, this can become dangerous. We focus too hard on keeping our “eyes on the prize” and miss out on the obvious. We follow that food without realizing that it’s on a hook. Sometimes I need to remind myself that I can’t always just watch the prize.

With that said, sometimes the prize is extraordinary. Many visitors to the coast can attest that catching a large chinook salmon can be a prize indeed. Often called “spring” or “king” salmon, the chinook is regarded by many to be a top catch. When the fish is over 30 lbs, it is often referred to simply as a “Tyee,” meaning “chief.”

Traditionally, my ancestors would often troll for this species of salmon. They used hooks made from wood and bone and baited with herring. The chinook would follow the hook, mesmerized by the bait. They kept their eyes on the prize, not knowing that this singular determination would be their last. This print is made to celebrate the gift of the chinook. It is also created to rejoice in our own ability to focus on a goal and knowing when to back off.

“Eyes on the Prize” is a limited edition print using the giclée method of printmaking. This print was released in November of 2007 and printed by Andy Everson at the artist’s own studio in Comox B.C. A total of 109 prints bear the title “Eyes on the Prize” and are signed by Andy Everson: 99 in the primary edition bearing the numbers 1/99 through 99/99; 9 Artist’s Proofs; and 1 Printer’s Proof. The acid-free Moab Entrada 100% cotton rag paper measures 8.5x22 inches. Image size measures about 7x20 inches.