Natural Disaster

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Monday, February 1st, 2010
7:30 PM to 9:30 PM

Natural Disaster presents five characters interacting with a Western Red Cedar in the lush and unique Cathedral Grove on Vancouver Island. The old growth Western Red Hemlock and Douglas-fir trees found in Cathedral Grove have been both a source of wonder and aggravation for environmentalists. This one-of-a-kind forest has existed under the threat of logging and development since its discovery. If it weren’t for the few protestors who stood (and continue to stand) in the way of development, the giant trees would be long toppled, never to be enjoyed again. The characters in this project are presented in such a way as to reflect upon this problem that our province faces every day: the struggle to preserve the wilderness which surrounds us, while inviting the world to come and enjoy it with us. Everyone has a connection with nature, whether they acknowledge it or not, and the work which makes up Natural Disaster reflects the chain of command which sometimes breaks its hierarchal order as individuals begin to listen to one another.

Each photograph singles out five personas, a hiker, a logger, a protestor, a businessman, and a politician, all of which are enacted by the artist. While the costumes of the characters are chosen to convey opinion and moral position, their facial hair is of particular importance, of which each wears a specific amount and style. The grooming of facial hair creates a metaphorical visual on logging practices and also notes where our society’s attention is held: on vanity, self awareness, and entitlement to certain lifestyles. Our infatuation with ourselves leads to disinterest in important daily issues, and points to how huge pieces of nature go missing and continue to disappear off the face of the earth.