SHEILA KAY FOX

The Esto'k Gna Awareness Project involved the creation of a modern reed hut depicting imagery inspired by Texas indigenous rock art. The Esto’k Gna are a very small small native American tribe in South Texas looking to preserve and reawaken their language and culture.

I was approached by Steve McDaniel, a local activitst, and asked to design an image to be painted on the center panel of a modern reed hut that he had designed out of pvc pipe and reed panels. The hut needed to be low cost and simple to build so that it could be easily replicated to resemble a village. The image for the center panel was to be based on Texas indigenous rock art. It was believed that a colorful, modern image would peak the curiosity of both tribal members and the general public. This curiosity will hopefully lead to renewed enthusiasm and awareness for the Tribe.

The images and narrative contained in Texas rock art are very meaningful to the Esto’k Gna and their cultural practices. I researched the paintings that Forrest Kirkland made of Texas indigenous rock art on location in the 1930s. Steve served as an intermediary between Tribal Council and myself. After visiting with Tribal leaderships, learning about their endeavors, and earning their trust, I created a modern design for the center panel of the structure. Steve and I tested building the structure in Austin, where I also painted the center panel.

We then traveled to Carrizo Springs to meet with Tribal Council and install the hut. After installation, it was gifted to the Tribe and is currently used during Esto’k Gna ceremonies and educational events.

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