Art in the Open presents Groundwork: Living Quilt by Shelby Criswell
About this Event
Groundwork: A Living Quilt with Shelby Criswell
Join Art in the Open at Confluence Park for the making of a living quilt. Presented by the San Antonio River Foundation and hosted by artist Shleby Criswell whose work ranges from comics, graphic design and fiber arts.
The Experience
Help Prep the Nopal at Pollinator Tea Party, Oct 10
- Come and go help shape a part of the quilt with Nopal and meet the artist.
Build the Living Quilt with us Oct 17
- Create a quilt like pattern from plants at Confluence Park which will stay on display for the next two weeks
- Hands on artmaking experience.
- Learn about quilting and it's significance in the San Antonio River Foundation's newest public art instillation Presence of the Past.
Age Requirement: 16+. Please note that we will be tools with sharp ends.
Participants will create the quilt pattern until the materials and design is complete.
The Follow Up: This work will continute to be on display at Confluence Park till Nov 2 to see how nature goes back to nature.
What to Expect
- What to Wear: This event takes place outdoors under the pavilion. Please dress comfortably for the weather! We're going to be working with the earth so be ready to get dirty hands and clothes dirty.
- What to Bring: All supplies (gloves, native plants, etc.) are provided! But bring a refillable water bottle and sunglasses, sunscreen and hat. (We actually have extra sunscreen and bug spray usually.)
- Arrival: Both events are come an go, please just come before 7:30 pm if you want to do more than just help clean up!
About Art in the Open
Art in the Open is a public arts series presented by the San Antonio River Foundation that invites artists and the community to experience creativity in dialogue with the natural world. Through workshops, performances, and installations along the river, the series reflects the Foundation’s mission to preserve, enhance, and transform the San Antonio River Basin as a vibrant cultural, educational, ecological, and recreational experience. Guided by these four pillars—culture, education, ecology, and recreation—Art in the Open activates public spaces where art, nature, and community meet contemporary art. "ART IN THE OPEN: Discover Art Along Your River."
About Shelby Criswell
Shelby Criswell (they/them) is a multidisciplinary artist born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. Their work spans illustration, graphic design, comics, and mixed media, often exploring themes of identity, queerness, and Southern culture with a sharp sense of humor and a strong DIY ethos.
They are known for their contribution to “Be Gay, Do Comics”, the Ringo and Ignatz award-winning anthology published by The Nib. They have also collaborated with renowned Texas band Asleep At The Wheel, as well as local businesses such as Puro Handsome Barbershop, Déjà Vu Esoterica, and Eternosteelo.
Shelby has held residencies at Southtown Art Gallery (2024) and Willow- house in Terlingua (2025), and is currently the artist-in-residence at Mark Twain Dual Language Academy through the UTSA AIR Program.
Learn more about shelby at www.shelbycriswell.com
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00 to USD 10.00
