Library Series

 

These images were made from the library of the 1860’s schoolhouse where I lived for over 20 years.  Worn dictionaries and encyclopedias, history, math and science books, primers and sets of classic literature lined the shelves.  I started making this series at a time when my life was busy, my calendar bulging with commitments leaving little time for art or reflection. 

 

I began by making precarious piles of the books, stepping back with my camera on a tripod and pitching a book at the pile to record the moment of collapse.  I thought it would be an accurate illustration of my state of mind.

 

But the piles didn’t fall down.  I am a good builder, with years of experience renovating old buildings and five years spent as a cabinetmaker.  Looking at the proof sheets, I was struck by the message that a life/pile of books out of balance has its own beauty and strength.  I decided to make the series about the grace of imperfection. 

 

Later I saw that these pictures could also be seen as a monument to learning, each page and volume housing the accumulated the experiences and knowledge of generations.   I made prints to send to all my favorite teachers throughout my school years. 

 

The images are made in an analogue darkroom, sepia toned, gelatin silver prints with a hand rubbed archival wax over the surface.  They come in an uneditioned size on 8x10” paper, and editioned prints in 11x14” and 16x20”.