BIRCH BARK COLLAGE SERIES
Birch trees are iconic features of the Canadian landscape. Their structure, colour and texture punctuate the landscape, readily calling our attention to the natural world. The ‘Birch bark collage’ series presents a meditation on colour and presence. While peeling back the layers of bark collected from the South Bruce Penninsula, I was struck by the beauty of the subtle. Colour and texture variations become more apparent with time. We require slowness and presence to really see. Seeing brings connection and connection brings restoration. Restoration of our relationship with nature is integral as our landscapes are increasingly threatened and polluted by urban sprawl.
Aspen Rhythms
This work is based on my two favourite Aspen trees
Aspens
Jitter Grid
This work is based on patterns seen at the bottom of a burnt pot.
I see the Universe in burnt coffee.
Collage
Given my interest in squares and grids, collage is a natural way for me to work. I often assemble fragments of photographs I have taken, which have been enlarged or reduced on a photocopier. I prefer the physicality of a photocopier, and the random graininess it introduces, rather than assembling images digitally. The chaotic and unexpected are important elements of my work.
Mixed media
The Achnabreck Ring series is based on photos which I took in the Kilmartin Valley in western Scotland. I superimposed rhythmic grids and circles, while leaving parts of the photos as compositional elements.