Eric Portrait of Eric K. Woods, Jr. by Karen Ruggles
From Monique Irvis, Eric’s mother: Eric Keith Woods Jr. was born on December twenty fifth in the year 1987. He was always a loving and caring individual with so much potential to be great and do phenomenal things. However, sadly before he could even begin to take part in those great things, whatever they may have been, Eric was murdered on August First in the year 2007 just moments after leaving a basketball game in the Kingsessing area of Philadelphia. Even though he was only nineteen when he was murdered, he had already done so many great things. Eric was a great son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend amongst other things. If there was ever anything someone needed he wouldn’t hesitate to do all he could to help. He was just a great individual with such a vibrant personality. His love for basketball was like no other. He was so hardworking that even at a young age he always kept a job in an attempt to financially help his family and friends with anything they may have needed. He consistently considered others happiness before his own. Eric’s presence alone could light up a room and when he spoke you could always feel the sincerity in his voice. This year makes ten years since he’s been gone and it already feels like a lifetime. We will always remember him for exactly what he was: an affectionate, ambitious, loving, considerate, generous and passionate person. Love knows no boundaries so even while Eric is no longer physically here, his family and friends will continue to appreciate the time they shared with him. Eric Keith Woods Jr. has a legacy that will live on forever.
From the artist Karen Ruggles: Karen Ruggles is an assistant professor at DeSales University specializing in digital art and 3D animation. She works in digital media and produced this piece based off of photographs provided by Eric’s mother. The piece intends to bring a sense of connection to a young man whose life was lost to violence. Ten years after his murder, the family is still awaiting justice for Eric’s memory. May Eric’s soul find peace and his family find justice.
From the curator: I have clear memories of watching people enter the exhibition space and be drawn to this portrait of Eric. In this depiction he seems so solid and grounded yet the image pulsates with the beautiful lines moving about his face, pulling his features together and the energy field of blues behind him. It is a very compelling image and projects a very strong young man.
Eric Portrait of Eric K. Woods, Jr. by Karen Ruggles digital print on canvas 16” x 20” 2017
