Carlsbad’s Halagueno Park received a whopping four new art installations this spring! The Mayor’s Fine Arts Acquisition and Vetting Committee worked to bring these new pieces to the park: The Emerald Dragon by Richard Swenson, Channeling Frank Kindel by Barrett DeBusk, The Nursery Series by Jim Eppler, and The Four Elements by Wren Prather Stroud.
The Spanish word “halagueno” loosely translates to the English word “alluring.” Alluring, Master of Ceremonies, Julia Heaton of the Fine Arts Acquistion and Vetting Committee, explained is just what the arts park has become for the city of Carlsbad. The definition of “alluring” states that it’s an adjective meaning, “powerfully and mysteriously attractive or fascinating; seductive.” Shaded by mature trees, boasting several water features, a smooth walking path, and numerous sculptures, the park draws the public in and invites folks to enjoy the larger-than-life works of art.
The Emerald Dragon is a scrap metal sculpture proudly standing guard in front of the Carlsbad Public Library’s sign and address just to the right of the front doors. The emerald eyes pop against the silver color of the sinewy dragon formed of heavy-duty roller chain. Just off of the gazebo lies “The Nursery.” The Nursery is a collection of a few different types of native animals including, a roadrunner, coyotes, box turtles, cottontails all by artist Jim Eppler. “Channeling Frank Kindle” resides directly in front of the library and is a companion piece of sorts to the permanent display in the Hall of Fame in the Carlsbad Museum sharing a building with the library to an early mayor of Carlsbad known colloquially as the “Flying Frank Kindle” who flew airplanes and rode unicycles and early bicycles in his free time. Check out the display in the Hall of Fame before viewing the mustachioed metal sculpture in the park. Finally, Wren Prather Stroud, completed her piece for the park taking inspiration directly from the way the Pecos waters hit the shore along the river in the “Water” panel. The four panels of her piece were cut and assembled locally, but reference styles of art from around the world including impressionism in “Fire” and Japanese waves in “Water.”
Halagueno Park reflects the spirit of Carlsbad and many aspects of life in the desert made by local sculptors and artists. Get to know the city by strolling the path through the park and engaging with the pieces and checking out the library and the museum as well. Read more about the park at they Pearl of the Pecos website Halagueno Arts Park | Pearl of the Pecos A and on the City of Carlsbad website Halagueno Arts Park | Carlsbad, New Mexico – Official City Website (cityofcarlsbadnm.com).
