Photos by Lillian Bills
24 x 32 inches
Acrylic paint, paint marker, strung beads
In Collaboration with Sue Swanson, Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey
Everything has a beginning, and Emergence was inspired by the different beginnings of Wisconsin’s springs. All springs originate from rainwater, trickling through layers of bedrock or sandstone, but each spring presents itself differently. In Wisconsin, springs emerge through structures, caves, rock fissures, or sandy-bottomed bodies of water. Eventually, water from these springs evaporates and returns as rainfall again, continuing the cycle of emergence. While creating this piece, I sifted through several images of Wisconsin’s springs and selected the ones that I felt best encapsulated their movement and beauty. In this piece, I hope viewers are able to feel the movement of the water as it emerges through these springs.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Laila Smith is an undergraduate studying graphic design and life sciences communication at the University of Wisconsin – Madison. She is a Co-Editor in Chief for the Wisconsin Engineer Magazine and works part-time as a communications assistant for the Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies. Some of her future aspirations are opening an Etsy store and working as a graphic designer for National Geographic Magazine.
Instagram: @made_by_laila_
ABOUT THE WATER PARTNER
Dr. Sue Swanson is the Director of the Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey (WGNHS) and State Geologist. She leads the talented staff at the WGNHS and connects with communities and partners across Wisconsin to advance the understanding and use of geological information. Prior to becoming State Geologist, her research as a hydrogeologist included studying how groundwater moves through fractures in sedimentary bedrock aquifers, interactions between groundwater and surface water, and the hydrogeology of springs.
MADE POSSIBLE THROUGH SUPPORT FROM
