The examination of objects and the spaces they occupy is a predominant theme of my work. I am fascinated by "found stilllife" and become engrossed in recording and studying them. My work explores the liminal moment that relates to perception,memory, and narrative. These images have a forensic quality to them, as though the scene ultimately contains enough evidence to allow the viewer to reconstruct, recreate, re-member, the fullness of what occurred when people were there leaving their social thumbprints on the space.
For over seven years my images have addressed the fragile nature of living institutions by examining abandoned hospital spaces. My background as a registered nurse is the catalyst for this interest. The Hospital images explore the idea that the human presence remains a part of the history and narrative of these now uninhabited places. The jetsam left in the wake of the departing staff recalls a past when the space was integral to the lifeblood of the community. The images are an historic record of a moment, a place, a community, and a service that no longer exists. This work addresses many different issues: the current crisis in healthcare, preservation of history versus building anew, the allocation of resources in the community, economic pressure on the middle class, and conflict in values.
These images describe the current demise of health care throughout the world. The change in patient demographics over the last several years has greatly impacted health care. Everyday there is a news story of yet another hospital closing due to rising costs and diminished reimbursements. As a result, hospitals have succumbed to the reality of economics, as profit margins for health care services are less than their underlying real estate value.
The issue of healthcare is on the minds of every American. I believe in the ability for this work to generate an entry point into a meaningful, constructive dialogue about healthcare today.
