artist statement

My principle objective in creating Mirror Image is to frame a contemporary and local issue about which I am passionate. Bird conservation is commonly a low profile issue in large cities. Most people are unaware that several million birds die each year after flying into the reflective glass on city centre towers during spring and fall migrations. Light pollution from the city at night and the daytime reflection from large glass structures disorient birds, rendering their natural defenses ineffective. Recent urban landscape obstacles have not dampened the centuries-old instincts that drive migratory birds. Having seen first-hand the carnage that literally rains from the skies, my hope is that my piece will raise awareness and accountability and incite change. I feel the piece has relevance in today’s growing environmentally-conscious culture where birds are understood to be an essential part of a healthy ecology. It is time to look in the mirror and re-establish a mutually beneficial and sustainable relationship with nature.