The process of making the patterns starts with getting out into the wilderness. Settling into the landscape through simple mindfulness meditation brings me into focus with the local environment. The Earth slowly reveals itself through playful exploration of the immediate surroundings.
Using the lens of an ecologist, I carefully examine within a small area all of the available natural material. Within just a small area there is so much diversity of plant life, animal, and minerals. I then begin arranging the natural objects into very simply geometrical shapes to contrast or reveal something special about each place. This usually takes on the form of a solid line.
The pattern is then photographically documented. Using digital photo editing software, the image is mirrored to produce a symmetrical shape. Each pattern reveals a variety stories that showcase the unique qualities of each place.
All of the natural objects collected are left at the site or returned as carefully as possible to their context. It is important to leave no trace once the work is complete. Natural places deserve our respect and reverence. Leaving no trace becomes more important as time passes due to increasing human demands on the Earth's resources and ecosystem.
