About the artist: Bill Crabtree is a graphic artist for the Virginia Department of Tourism and formerly with the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. His wonderful illustrations and paintings can be seen on Virginia State Parks brochures and other environmental publications. His paintings have been exhibited in Richmond. During the 2005 General Assembly, Crabtree was recognized for his rescueing several people from the flood waters in Shockoe Bottom during Hurricane Gaston.

Description: Crabtree used oils to paint the shad like an ear of Indian corn with the husks on one side and the opened ear on the other. The Mattaponi and Pamunkey watersheds are rich in Native American history and agriculture. Crabtree chose his theme to reflect that heritage.