I have always been interested in the idea of familiarity in the landscape. As a photographer, I have sought out the small scale, preferring the orchard to the scenic vista. In my work, I am interested in discovering and creating a sense of place that feels contemplative and familiar.
My response to place is formed by my past. I grew up in rural Pennsylvania and lived in Massachusetts and Rhode Island before moving to Washington. In each place, I was an observer first, walking around the neighborhood, driving down the side roads and sometimes, taking pictures. Being a photographer gives me permission to collect pieces of a place-this stone wall, that oak tree, this blackberry vine….To explore a place with a camera is a way of situating myself. It allows me to define what it is about the place I value. I seem to prefer the winter landscape-trees without leaves, subdued color-the darkening sky. I find that I am particularly drawn to small houses. I notice the evidence of day to day domestic life- clotheslines, rows of bulbs, a carefully coiled garden hose- and I feel a sense of optimism as I contemplate these attempts to make order.