Hospital

STATEMENT

The examination of objects and the spaces they occupy is a predominant theme of my work. These objects and spaces are studied in order to reconstruct a picture of life in the past. I seek out the mundane, unnoticed elements to photograph. The images explore the liminality in time that relate to perception, memory, and narrative. They record the impressions made on a physical space -- a portrait of society, a moment in time that is once abstract, impressionistic and surreal. For over six years my images have addressed the fragile nature of living institutions by examining abandoned hospital spaces. My background as a registered nurse is the catalyst for this interest. The Hospital images explore the idea that the human presence remains a part of the history and narrative of these now uninhabited places. The jetsam left in the wake of the departing staff recalls a past when the space was integral to the lifeblood of the community. The images are an historic record of a moment, a place, a community and service that no longer exists. This project began with my photographing the former Columbus Hospital in Chicago where I once worked. It has expanded to include two closed hospitals in the southeastern region of England. All three hospitals sit on prime real estate and are being developed into luxury living spaces. Everyday there is a news story of yet another hospital closing due to rising costs and diminished reimbursements. As I continue this project, I hope to bring this mounting crisis to the forefront of consciousness.

Publishing Date 2008 / 09 / 08