Becoming Historic Document, 2017

Four-channel HD Digital Video; 22:24, documentation of live performances

Developed during a residency at a living history museum in Western Pennsylvania. Performances occurred without introduction or ceremony during visiting hours confusing what could be routine historic maintenance.

Using a scanner similar to that utilized by museum and archival staff, I scanned objects and living things in the replica of a 19th c. natural history museum and recreated historic gardens. I playfully parody the process of “natural history” historicization: flattening living beings and objects into images and paperwork. At a living history museum, the lines between historic and non historic object are continually blurred. The entire site and grounds become a historic object – living plants are part of the collection, an accessioned stand-in and replica of what no longer exists.