Eagle from Paddle Wheel Cover of "Island Home" c. 1937

Alfred H. Smith made this painted paddle wheel cover, depicting an eagle, from the "Island Home" boat. Imagine Smith, steadying himself on the boat, carefully carving the wood, each chip revealing the form within. The eagle's wings, layered with gold paint, fan out with a kind of exuberant energy. The shield with its red stripes and blue stars held proudly. I wonder, was Smith thinking of folk art traditions? The surface has a worn feel, like it's been touched by time and weather. I love this! The textures imply a history, like each mark tells a story of river journeys and craftsmanship. The act of painting itself becomes a kind of conversation across generations. Smith probably never thought his paddle wheel would become a museum piece, but here it is, continuing to speak.