SOH Founder Erich Preis Receives Town Proclamation

In the heart of Huntington, a quaint town with a rich history and a thriving artistic community, Erich Preis, the founder of the Spirit of Huntington Art Center, found himself at the intersection of creativity and civic duty. Erich, known for his prolific skills as a painter and his dedication to fostering artistic expression, had a special connection with the town.

One day, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over Huntington, Erich received a surprise recognition for his contributions to the local art scene. Councilman Eugene Cook, a familiar face in the community and a supporter of the arts, decided to honor Erich with a Town of Huntington Proclamation. The proclamation was a testament to Erich’s tireless efforts in nurturing the artistic spirit of the town and providing a platform for budding artists to flourish.

This recognition was not just a formal acknowledgment but a genuine appreciation for Erich’s commitment to the cultural vibrancy of Huntington. It was a moment that reflected the town’s gratitude for the transformative power of art and the positive impact of the Spirit of Huntington Art Center on the community.

Sometime earlier, Erich presented Councilman Cook with a breathtaking painting capturing the serene beauty of Huntington’s Heckscher State Park. The painting, a masterpiece in its own right, showcased Erich’s deep connection with the town’s natural landscapes.

As fate would have it, Councilman Cook, moved by the sentiment behind the painting and the impending changes in his own life, decided to pay it forward. With a heart full of goodwill and a vision for preserving the town’s artistic legacy, he made a generous donation. Councilman Cook chose to give Erich’s painting of Heckscher State Park to the Town of Huntington Archives, ensuring that it would become a permanent part of the town’s cultural heritage.

This symbolic act of passing on the artwork to the archives represented a seamless transition of leadership and a commitment to preserving the town’s artistic legacy for future generations. Erich’s painting would now be safeguarded within the town’s archives, a timeless reminder of the synergy between art and community spirit.

As Councilman Cook prepared to embark on a new chapter in his political career, his parting gift echoed the enduring power of art to connect people, communities, and the passage of time. Erich Preis, with his brushstrokes and dedication, had not only painted vibrant canvases but also woven a thread of artistic legacy into the very fabric of Huntington.