Urban Forest

Signs of Life

These works represent an ongoing body of work that synthesizes my established artistic practice as a painter and my advanced environmental and social science education. The focus of my work is the urban milieu of Hamilton, Ontario. 

This city is on the cusp of rapid growth and development – an exciting time for a vibrant and diverse metropolitan centre. It is located in one of the most biologically rich environments in Canada and its population is highly aware of the ecological pressures on valuable natural areas. The social pressures of gentrification after decades of neglect and decay also must be carefully managed as heritage properties and marginalized neighbourhoods are eyed for real estate development. The social-ecological balance here is fragile and contested.

My Master’s thesis examined the dimensions of social sustainability within the built environment. This background gives my urban, architectural landscapes a personal and unique depth of understanding and compassion. My intent is to explore multi-faceted issues of de-industrialization rather than to simply record examples of urban decay.