PROJECT: Yardscapes


Resources:

Image Gallery (requires flash)

Statement:

Owning land, and its implied liberties, has always been an essential part of the American Dream.   The resulting development of suburbs, and subsequently the idea that every family could own a home, created a unique cultural trend in which a yard is no longer a reflection of a building but of its occupants. As this space became divided over time through development configurations and street planning, the front yard, unlike the private and more personal back yard, quickly became the doormat landscape.   This front yard has thus become each person's pallet upon which they welcome the public.   While some homeowners go to great lengths in decorating their plots with statues, flowers, and flags, others are satisfied with a weekly visit from the landscaper.   Is it just investment property, or do they spend hours gardening every afternoon?   Do they have a political or religious rant they are preaching?   In a neo-folk-art sense I believe we can gain insight into the lives of homeowners by interpreting this very basic relationship.

Medium: 35mm film, silver gelatin prints