Intertwine

This artwork investigates mining extraction processes and their socio-ecological impacts and are inspired by extensive research and site visits to historic and modern mines in California, Minnesota, Colorado, and Montana. It is visually informed by geology maps, aerial photography of open pit mines, historic hand-drawn mine claim and mineral surveys, and months of hiking the Mojave and Colorado deserts of Joshua Tree National Park in search of its over 300 mines. This research highlighted the fundamental and often unnoticed role of water in mining processes and its frequent contamination of aquifers and surface water. Situated within the tension of geologic processes and human experience, the work reflects issues around resource extraction, regional ecologies, and histories. –Artist statement