Thousands of memories, one stunning work of art

PULLMAN, Wash. - The latest creation of renowned Spokane artist Ben Joyce is a canvas brimming with Cougar Spirit.

Unveiled Thursday on Washington State University's Pullman campus, the composition represents the places where so many past students made unforgettable memories and invites viewers to share these memories with family and friends.

The project is a collaboration between Joyce and WSU that will also serve as a university fundraiser, with 70% of profits from the sale of officially licensed editions supporting Cougar Athletics.

"What makes this project so special is that it transforms thousands of individual Cougar memories into a shared visual story," said Jon Haarlow, vice president and director of athletics. "Ben Joyce has created a truly unique tribute to Washington State University, and an opportunity for alumni and supporters to bring a piece of that experience home while supporting Cougar Athletics."

The piece, now a prominent fixture within the Compton Union Building on the Pullman campus, was commissioned by Greg and Jayne Beckel alongside a group of fellow WSU alumni: Scott and Lisa Taylor, Dan and Claudia Goodfellow, Mark and Sheryl Ossello, Jack and Lisa Heath, and Bruce and Linda Mares Titus. Their goal was to bring a new artistic landmark to campus and give fans both a chance to own their own version and a way to support Cougar Athletics.

Pre-orders are now available, with Dec. 1 being the official launch of the sale.

"We are so excited for members of the WSU family to see this new piece of art and for them to be able to reminisce about their time as students," Beckel said. "It's also a great way for fans to support our student-athletes for many years to come."

The WSU Pullman composition is approximately 7-by-7 feet and is on display just outside the Bookie, the campus' official bookstore. Anyone interested in viewing different sizes of the piece they can buy simply has to scan the QR code located nearby.

Joyce's inspiration for his art comes from geography, with each piece connecting the viewer to the place in question. He spoke to numerous members of the WSU community for insights on what defines the experience of going to school in Pullman. Their passion was as instrumental as the paint and canvas to bringing the piece to life.

"My goal in creating this composition is to enable the viewer to connect with Pullman and the WSU campus and relive those incredible years, whether it was last year or 40 years ago," Joyce said.

Beckel and his fellow supporters worked with numerous WSU leaders to bring the plan to life over the past year, including Brad Hutchins, deputy director of athletics and chief revenue officer.

Media Contacts

• Bobby Alworth, WSU Athletics, 509-335-5785, [email protected]
• Ben Joyce, Painter of Place, 509.242.3427, [email protected]