Harbingers is an immersive installation of organic, tattered fiber columns pierced by flame, suggesting a ghost forest in the aftermath of wildfire. Dozens of these forms, nearly 10 feet tall, are suspended from the ceiling with paths through the installation inviting viewers to contemplate the impact of extreme weather patterns like drought and the fires that follow, not only on forests, but on human survival.
The cylindrical columns are made from stark white linen gauze, painted with India ink, and burned and charred with a candle. Working with flame became a meditation on fire and carbon, and at the same time an observation of the impact of wind gusts, temperature, and oxygen on fire. On days when red flag warnings for extreme drought and wind were issued in Madison, Wisconsin, where she lives, she paused the burning.
