Will Eskridge, a full-time artist and muralist based in Athens, has brought misunderstood creatures like armadillos, raccoons, and possums into the spotlight for this year's AthFest Music and Arts Festival. Inspired by his upbringing surrounded by both art and animals, Eskridge channels compassion and creativity to celebrate these often-overlooked species through vibrant imagery. His work reflects a deep appreciation for the quirks of nature and personal experiences that resonate with universal themes of authenticity and joy.
Eskridge’s unique artistic journey began in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, where he was nurtured by supportive parents who encouraged his love for art. This foundation laid the groundwork for his career as an interdisciplinary artist. By reimagining so-called "unhuggable" animals in whimsical contexts, Eskridge not only challenges societal perceptions but also connects deeply with viewers on an emotional level.
Celebrating Misunderstood Creatures Through Art
Will Eskridge's art transforms overlooked animals into symbols of resilience and charm. For AthFest, he highlights the armadillo—a creature often dismissed—as a central figure gracing festival banners. His choice of subjects extends beyond armadillos to include raccoons and possums, each depicted with personality and dignity. These animals represent forgotten heroes that deserve recognition and admiration.
Eskridge’s fascination with “unhuggable” animals stems from their underappreciated qualities. When designing AthFest’s logo, he embraced the suggestion to feature an armadillo, turning it into a striking emblem atop a record in cool blue tones. Similarly, other pieces showcase bats adorned with donut halos and raccoons clutching rubies. Such creations invite viewers to reconsider preconceived notions about these creatures while evoking feelings of nostalgia and humor. Through his lens, even the most unconventional animals become vessels for storytelling and connection.
Inspiration Rooted in Nature and Personal Experience
Eskridge draws inspiration from firsthand encounters with wildlife and cherished memories of childhood. A pivotal moment during a trip to Yellowstone inspired one of his paintings: a moose basking in a sunset-lit pond. Another piece features a raccoon holding a ruby, symbolizing imperfection as a hallmark of authenticity. These works reflect his belief in embracing flaws as proof of genuineness, resonating universally across diverse audiences.
His artistic style blends vivid colors and playful motifs drawn from real-life observations and personal joys. Growing up immersed in veterinary care and artistic exploration, Eskridge learned early on how compassion shapes interactions between humans and animals. This perspective informs his approach to portraying animals in ways that highlight their hidden beauty. Whether capturing the serene grace of a bathing moose or imbuing a raccoon with symbolic meaning, Eskridge crafts narratives that transcend mere representation, inviting viewers to see the world—and its inhabitants—through fresh eyes. His art serves as both tribute and testament to the power of empathy and imagination.