A new art installation, ‘Presence of the Past’, was unveiled on Thursday morning at the San Pedro Creek Culture Park in San Antonio, Texas, to honor the legacy of St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church, which once stood on the site.

Uncovering History

In 2020, workers discovered a stone foundation during the park’s construction, revealing the church’s presence in the 1870s and 1880s. The discovery led to a pause in construction, allowing for further study and the integration of historical designations and interpretive signs into the project.

The San Antonio River Authority planned for two art installations to honor the church and its legacy. The large new art installation, ‘Presence of the Past’, was designed by California artist Gordon Huether, who drew inspiration from the shared African American experience and the freedom quilts.

The installation features repetitive patterns of quilts in white steel, paying tribute to the 300 original congregants of the church. Former San Antonio Poet Laureate Andrea Vocab Sanderson recited a poem about the church and its people during the dedication ceremony.

Community Significance

The San Antonio River Authority’s Mario Siller expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating that it brings the community together. The art installation serves as a reminder of the city’s rich history and the importance of preserving its cultural heritage.

Original reporting: San Antonio Report — read the source article.