My imagined world depicts the ever-changing northern environment. I am fascinated by the liminal moments or “times between;” and ask what is here, what came before and what is about to come. My images evoke the glow of slanting light on glacial bogs and boreal forests. I consider the melting ice, budding branches, migrating birds, and dying tamaracks that embody the fragile yet endurable nature of this place.
These altered collaged prints are made using traditional Japanese papers printed from laser- engraved woodblocks. I construct them by tearing, adhering, and layering prints to backing paper, which I then sand, scrape, and draw upon to complete the piece. This approach complements my experiences when walking in mountain forests, seeing roots enveloping a rock or brushing past spruce needles. With their earth tones and mottled backgrounds, my images evoke the process of erosion, decay and rebirth that takes place deep in the woods.
This work explores the complexity of a place at once familiar and unexpected, as well as joyous and melancholy. It comes out of a life-long quest to illuminate the mysteries of my northern roots.