Artist Statement
Combine photography with interest in pattern making to modify a space that has social, cultural and/or historic significance.
Historically, libraries were not open to the public. Only the upper classes could afford membership fees. The Boston Public Library McKim building, built in 1895, was the first free public municipal library in the United States, and the first to loan books to local citizens. The library design was described as “a palace for the people”.
I chose to superimpose a gold and purple Fleur de Lis pattern as wallpaper in the library reading room. The Fleur de Lis is associated with French monarchy, and has been employed in various religious, political, dynastic and artistic realms throughout history. I wanted to underscore the richness and grandeur of McKim’s design, and to bring a quiet sense of luxury to a public space that ordinary citizens could appreciate. The color gold represents status and wealth, the color purple represents calm and inspiration.
