How do you describe your own art practice?
I work pretty much exclusively in photography, although at times, I like to play with them medium and see how it can push its own limits.
The majority of my work, and the work I find myself most drawn to, however is created and derived from the real world. Looking at the complicated line that is drawn between fantasy and reality.
I’ve been referring to it as “Documentary Adjacent” lately.
from "The Local" (MACK 2021)
Which question or theme is central in your work?
The largest subject I seem to be drawn to is the idea of impermanence and the unknown. I use photography as a way to try to make sense of subjects that might scare or intimidate me and death and temporality are the two things that scare me most.
from "The Local" (MACK 2021)
What was your first experience with art?
My grandparents on my dad’s side were big art collectors in New York. I remember a large wall sculpture that hung in the foyer of there apartment. But actually, my mom’s parents where Italian Catholics. They had this large portrait of Jesus above the credenza (that I learned later, my mother gave to them as an anniversary present). It wasn’t remarkable in any way, Long-haired white Jesus, but I would stare at it all the time. I remember how uncomfortable it made me. There was also a small framed version of “Guardian Angel on the Bridge” By H. Zabateri (I had to look that up just now) It scared me as well. I always saw it as the angel leading the children to heaven, not protecting them. I guess that catholic afterlife and fear of god myth runs pretty deep.
from "Good Bones" Unpublished
What is your greatest source of inspiration?
I glean most of my inspiration from getting out into the world. Photographing yes, but also just paying attention to the world.
I also spend a lot of time looking at old photographs. Usually found photos, but also my old family albums. I like the fantasy that exists just outside the frame.
I think it is important to always keep an eye (or ear) out for new research, whatever that means. I’m at my most stagnant when I fall into the same routines.
from "Good Bones" Unpublished
What do you need in order to create your work?
Time. If I have that, the rest will fall into place.
from "Good Bones" Unpublished
What work or artist has most recently surprised you?
I live pretty close to Mass MOCA and they have a few James Turrell’s installed for the next few decades (at least). It’s not really a surprise I guess, but when I am feeling lost I go there to have the closest thing to a religious experience I think I’m capable of.
from "The Local" (MACK 2021)
