A Reflection by ACE EPIC Member Anastasia Camarca
When I began applying for my position at Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park (FRSP), I watched some of the testimonials from other ACE members to get a better idea of the nature of the internship. One of them shared how she had an artistic background and was able to utilize her skills within her position. As someone who also has an artistic background, knowing that I could lean into my particular strengths was really exciting!
Looking back at the last four months working with the NPS at FRSP, I can see concrete examples of how my artistic skills translate to the work I am doing at the Fredericksburg National Cemetery. Our main project at the site has been to remove and replace the old bricks on the main pathway to the top of the cemetery. When we lay down our concrete powder mix, sometimes we have to make adjustments in order that the bricks sit smooth and level. In the same way that my eye for detail allows me to make adjustments to a drawing or painting, I am able to determine if I need to add or remove concrete in small sections so that each individual brick sits smooth. Not only does the result look visually pleasing, it also makes sure the pathway is safe, since bricks that are too high or too low could become tripping hazards.
As an artist, I know the importance of stepping back from the artwork that I make. It can be easy to get caught up in the small details and not see the piece as a whole. Whenever I step back from my painting or my work project, I can better reflect on it as a whole and also open myself up to feedback from others. Learning how to engage in an art critique during class has taught me how to take feedback and apply it to my next step forward, which is necessary since I work with a team. We help each other to pick up on things we ourselves may not immediately notice and find a solution together.
I had the opportunity to really showcase my passion for art during National Park week. As part of my professional development through ACE, I completed a week-long Artist in Residency program at George Washington Birthplace National Park (GEWA). During the week I was able to paint outside while talking with visitors about my work, learn more about the history of the park and its founding, and walk around taking a variety of reference photos for my landscape. The same skills I used to handle small hand tools, make adjustments to the pathway, and to assess my project were all used while I was making my paintings. This opportunity was such a highlight for me during my time with ACE and I am so thankful for the ability to share my talents with the NPS in this way.
During my time at GEWA and other park sites, I learned that those who work for the parks service have a variety of backgrounds and disciplines. Everything from the trades, wildlife science, forestry, to sculpture were all showcased. Their respective disciplines all play some role in the work they currently do for their parks. This internship has given me the opportunity to use my skill set in the world of historic preservation , while also allowing me to continue to make art and both grow as an artist and contribute to the public memory of GEWA.
Here I am laying bricks at the Fredericksburg National Cemetery. I am checking to make sure that I have enough concrete mixture on the bottom so the brick lays smooth and level.
A photo of me at GEWA where I am adding some details to the trees in my landscape painting.
A photo of me with my two completed works. The first one is a landscape painting of a bridge that looks over a part of Pope’s Creek. The second is a portrait of Josephine Rust, who was the president of the Wakefield Association.