In this series, I create in-camera double-exposures. One image depicts a leaf, found lying on snow. The second image is of the surrounding trees. By layering these two perspectives, an abstract image appears where a leaf is filled with trees and land that, presumably, is where the leaf is from and has been its entire life.

Now separated from its’ branch, trunk, roots, and soil, does a leaf belong anywhere? 

Using the metaphor of a fallen leaf, this series explores my own relationship to place. I’ve often wondered how much a place defines and impacts me. Is my identity wrapped up in “where I’m from” and can that change? When removed from a familiar place, how can you not be reminded of it, and how can you not reflect it?

How come, no matter how long I live in one place, I don’t feel like I belong?  

The images are presented in a book with a variety of papers, encouraging viewers to feel the pages, creating a personal connection to the leaves and emphasizing the physicality of the subject matter. The text serves as short contemplations on the concept of belonging, allowing the viewers to reflect and connect to the piece intellectually. Working with technically challenging processes of shooting, printing, and binding, I stimulate personal reflection, exploring connections between identity, belonging, and land.

A fallen leaf looks up to the tree it once called home.

It notices others on the ground, and knows it is not alone.