Snowy Range Pass

Snowy Range Pass

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

Friends and activist artist

We next headed to Tickfaw State Park, LA to meet with some long time friends Dan and Corrie. Dan and I were stationed in Rotterdam, the Netherlands in the late 70's and as things turned out, we both left the country with our new wives..  Tickfaw is not exactly along the beaten path, but it proved to be a nice park, including a nature center and boardwalk.  After catching up on news, we first visited the park nature center and walked the boardwalk.  It was a pleasant stroll but given that this was a swampy area, I am always looking down for those creepy and sometimes dangerous critters.  Sure enough, we spotted a good size Cottonmouth snake. 









Dan wanted to head into the city of Hammond to visit an artist mentioned in Roadside America.  Dr. Charles Smith began his art depicting the African American history from slavery to the present while living Illinois.  When we arrived at his studio/home, he was sitting in the front yard.  We introduced ourselves and he offered us a guided tour and explanation of his work.  He says he was inspired by God to create this art and to inspire his fellow African Americans to understand their history and work for a better future.  We spent the better part of an hour with him.  He is a very interesting person totally dedicated to his art and mission. 










Next on the list is a trip to the LA State Capitol.

10 comments:

Gypsy said...

There are lots of things lurking in swampy areas to be on the lookout for.

Jerry and Suzy said...

Watch out for those snakey things!

John Hedges said...

Now that is some interesting art and to meet the artist, how fun.

Wanderin' said...

I think that would be one place to be pretty careful around. We've found some interesting places to visit also from Roadside America.

Travels with Emma said...

Isn't it wonderful to meet some inspired folks along our travels? It's one of the favorite things about this life.

Sherry said...

That's some snake alright. Good thing you saw it. What an interesting time seeing the art of Dr. Smith

Gail Houle said...

Looks like an interesting place MINUS the snake!

Paul and Marti Dahl said...

So you both left the Netherlands with new wives. Where did you drop off the old ones? ;c)

Good shot of that snake, that's about as close as I ever want to get to one!

Rick said...

What an interesting and friendly artist to meet. Thanks for telling us about him.

Loved your swamp photos today - 'cept for the cottonmouth!

Paul and Marsha Weaver OCT. 17, 2009 said...

That snake is UGLY!

Paul could do a ton of craving with those cypress knees.