Ponderosa Pelts

2016-17 Mixed media on archival inkjet prints

Pinus ponderosa is one of the most widely distributed pines in Western North America, and one of the most distinctive. Their broad rust-colored plates, separated by deep black crevices make them immediately recognizable and iconic. The Ponderosa pines in this installation inhabited the Columbia River Gorge, a region that hosts an invasive beetle threatening these majestic conifers.

Of the hundreds of trees photographed, select examples were captured in detail with high-resolution images. Akin to photographic taxidermy, individual specimens were cut apart, reassembled and laminated highlighting the unique palettes, complexions, textures and patterning of the individual trees.

The Ponderosa Pelts were exhibited in PDX Contemporary’s Window Project, then installed for five years in Moda Tower, Portland, OR.