My scenic design for Riverside Theatre's production of Mary's Wedding draws heavily on my own artistic interests in the beauty and character of decay. I find an irresistible poetry in the material cycle of the built environment -- our conversion of natural materials into the fabricated elements of our habitations and surroundings, upon which the forces of nature work inexorably to corrupt, destroy, and ultimately reclaim.

While much of my work is concerned with the sociocultural issues and challenges implicit in this constant struggle between the built and natural environments, I am equally concerned with the celebration of decay. In many ways, florets of rust blooming on a corroded piece of steel are as compelling and beautiful as newly budded trees, or the slow growth of ivy on a building. And while urban decay might not strike us as particularly pleasing, it does bespeak an ecology of sorts. Nature drives the process of decay as it does that of growth, and the contemplation of material corruption is akin to the naturalist's study of flora and fauna.

The artwork on display here speaks to this fascination with the slow forces of nature, reclaiming that which we have taken and put to our own uses. And the beauty of Stephen Massicotte's script, the sensibilities and themes underpinning the story of these two characters, seemed to call on these concerns as a necessary part of this play's world. It is my hope that this work sheds some light on my intent as the Scenic Designer for this tremendous play, thereby bringing an additional dimension to one's experience of it.

proposal for a personal icon
(empty) mouths to feed
justification study no.14
justification study no.20
the qualities of a life fully lived (II)
the qualities of a life fully lived (III)
the qualities of a life fully lived (IV)