Take Us To The River (2022)
Take Us to the River, 2022. Mixed media, 40″ x 168″
Take Us to the River is a mixed media textile work inspired by the ecosystems in Lardner’s Point Park. The aim of this project was to use observation and creative interpretation of the plants, birds, and water microbes as a tool to engage the community with the Delaware River. Community members developed visual material for the piece during three art and nature walks in the Park, each focusing on a different aspect of riverfront ecology. Their artwork was transformed into embroidery patterns, fabric designs, and stencils, which were layered onto a cyanotype photo collage on one side and a pieced fabric landscape on the other. As a whole, Take Us to the River reflects both the beauty and complexities of native ecosystems and the collaborative human spirit with which it was made. This project was supported by Mural Arts Philadelphia and Riverfront North Partnership and developed during a residency at the TaconyLAB Community Art Center.