A Peaceful Kingdom: Erika Huddleston’s Shoal Creek
September 11, 2014 | By Shoal Creek Conservancy
This July we were lucky enough to host our own artist in residence, Erika Huddleston. In order to observe changing conditions along the creek, Erika began work on a series of large oil paintings near 9th street and Duncan Park. Focusing on the impact of urbanization, Huddleston conveyed not only the creeks natural beauty, but the detrimental affects of erosion, flooding, and both habitat and water quality degradation.“I am interested in how witnessing natural changes in urban landscapes – such as flood debris that reveals the long gone rise in waters – affects the urban parkgoer’s sense of past, present, and future,” said Erika Huddleston, artist.
We wanted to give our readers a followup on Erika’s work this summer. Below are some of her completed works courtesy of Gallery Shoal Creek.
Through her work, Huddleston sought to raise awareness of Shoal Creek flooding as well as portray the area as an incredible oasis in the heart of downtown. “I want to raise awareness of the creek and trail as a great community asset and the challenges it faces as an urban waterway,” said Huddleston.
We were very lucky to have Erika work with us this Summer and are very proud of the work she accomplished. Seen above, Erika’s work was truly awe inspiring. This Saturday, September 13 is the last day to view Erika’s work at the Gallery Shoal Creek. Please make an effort to stop by and see these incredible pieces in person.
Although her work will be leaving the gallery, her message of the park’s beauty and strength is stronger than ever. In describing a flood that took place on July 23rd, Erika reflected on the area’s ability to maintain peace even after a flood occurs. “One would never know from a quick glance at the current equilibrium that the flood occurred, though. The copulating dragonflies are back and small turtles and wolf spiders are sunning,” wrote Huddleston, “Peaceful kingdom.”
To learn more about her work, visit Erika’s website here. To help support the Conservancy and its mission, please join as a Founding Member today.
