Animals have been an inspiration for my life for as long as I can remember; I think I was born with this passion. Urbanizing the Eastern Gray Squirrel photographically explores the species Sciurus carolinensis as they live alongside humans in urban spaces. Over thousands of years, beginning with the rise of the first cities, urbanization has both benefited and harmed tree squirrels. From habitat destruction and roadkill to lack of predation and easy access to food, they have behaviorally evolved to adapt to rapid changes in their local environments. This series is informed by my biological understanding of the species and its interactions with its community. It only tells a story about today, not tomorrow; animals, science, and people are ever-changing and will continue to adapt in the future.

My photographs will be displayed as a mixed-media installation including video recordings, fieldnotes, and found images. The archival photographs were found by sifting through several databases, such as the Library of Congress and the New York Public Library Digital Collections. The use of diverse media will provide an encyclopedic-like investigation that references history, time, and biology for both the study of this species and the medium of photography.

I am inspired by the work of Alessandra Sanguinetti, especially her deep commitment and sensitivity to her subjects, both people and animals. Her prints are intense and memorable due to the composition and meticulous craft. Like her, I bring a deep dedication and careful production to my work.

Throughout this project, the squirrels of the several parks I visited frequently became used to my presence and held a tamer attitude towards me. I learned their schedules and identified individuals by color and markings. Because they are so populous in an environment that causes many interactions with people, they can be considered a nuisance or a background object in everyday life. Through my work, I hope to elevate this common creature to the realm of the extraordinary.