When approached about the Angel Island Insight Project, I thought
this would just be a great opportunity to visit a California State
Park I had never been to. On my first visit to the Island, I was
immediately drawn to the natural dichotomy within the landscape. The
native oak and invasive eucalyptus trees subtly reflect the dichotomy
of the treatment of the European and Chinese immigrants that came
through the Island. The vegetation and structural ruins encompassing
the Island visually represent the varied history and time passed
through the landscape. Angel Island has become a deep inspiration to
me and my work. When I spoke with friends about the project, some had
never been to the Island including many SF natives. I have always been
most interested to visit lesser known landscapes, as I hope my work
highlights and informs the public of these beautiful and historically
rich places.
— Christine Huhn, preservation photographer