PRIDE + SHAME

2025

ALTERNATIVE DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY​

As the white descendant of original Minnesota settlers, I grew up hearing stories that evokes pride and a belief system focused on hard work and perseverance. This is accurate... yet carefully curated. As an adult, I know my ancestors were able to come  to America with very little and built a life for themselves because they were white. They took advantage of an opportunity to own land, raise a family, and begin to build generational wealth. 

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This body of work features two series, working as companions to create comparison and offer both micro and macro perspectives. The first series focuses on the original homestead of my ancestors (still within the family). Images depict varying amounts of land manipulation or human influence. Images are printed on handmade sheets of polyvinyl acetate (aka Elmer's Glue); transparent and designed to deteriorate while on display. Create a direct parallel with family stories, these image degrade and self-alter quickly.

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The second series features images of governmental or socially recognized locations of personal significance or representative my understanding of Minnesota history and culture and are printed on acrylic digital lifts and transferred to gilded and rusting metal. Similar to the slow process of shifting a societal belief, these images deteriorate at a much slower pace. They present a moment in time when something previously precious or unconsidered becomes challenged and questioned for accuracy and complete truth. 

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This work is created under the mentorship of several Native American mentors. While my family's history is intimately tied to theirs, this work and research is presented with an intentional focus on my personal growth and understanding; I am not speaking for any culture or people other than my own. 

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Click here to read an essay by Dr. Megan Arney Johnston (www.slowcurating.com.

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This work is currently on display at Concordia University in St. Paul, MN.