Last Saturday, California State Parks unveiled a breathtaking new addition to the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park Visitor Center near Orick: a life-size mosaic sculpture of a bull Roosevelt elk by Humboldt County artist Jennifer a’Midi.
Weighing in at 225 pounds, the sculpture is adorned with 138 intricate depictions of native plants, animals, fungi, and habitat types, all brought to life through thousands of hand-cut glass tiles. For a’Midi, who has now completed four mosaic projects for State Parks, the elk is a deeply personal tribute:
“Prairie Creek is, for me, all about the elk … They’re so majestic and beautiful,” she told the gathered crowd.
District Superintendent Victor Bjelajac praised a’Midi’s artistry and generosity, calling her work “incredible” for both its attention to detail and its service to the public. He also recognized the vital support of Redwood Parks Conservancy, Redwood National and State Parks, and the Humboldt Redwoods Interpretive Association in bringing the project to life.
a’Midi shared her own connection to the parks, noting that she lives in Humboldt Redwoods, has worked for the parks herself, and that both of her daughters have been employed there.
“I wanted to give back to the parks,” she said. “I’m hoping these art pieces will inspire conservation, preservation of our forest and all its creatures — and maybe inspire some art.”
The Yurok Tribal Council will soon vote on a name for the sculpture, which now stands proudly at the Visitor Center. And the work doesn’t stop here — a’Midi has already announced her next project: a black bear mosaic for Sue-meg State Park Visitor Center near Trinidad.
We’re honored to have been part of this collaborative effort to bring art, culture, and conservation together in such a meaningful way. Next time you visit Prairie Creek, stop by the Visitor Center to experience this incredible work in person!
