The Building Project

Unit 2 Installation, Tape drawing with C-prints

From 2004 to 2009 I lived in a brick three-story corner building on Chicago’s historic Logan Boulevard, in the northwest-side neighborhood of Logan Square. The area, at that time was in a state of accelerated gentrification. This change was accentuated by the Boulevard’s buildings. Elaborate graystones, brownstones and historic estates, many of which were once owned by the city’s historical figures, line the street. While much of the neighborhood is rehabilitated condominiums and some new construction, our building is one of the few remaining rental properties, which attracts a range of tenants. The "low-rent", studio and one bedroom apartments in the building were home to a host of unique individuals who won't be around when this building inevitably turns condo. By taking a portrait of my neighbors in their apartments I am also taking a snapshot of this neighborhood at this specific time in its history, as well as, the varied ways people exist in their living space.

Patty, with Sweety Bird, 2007

This project took just under a year to complete. I introduced myself to each neighbor and requested to photographed them in their almost identical apartments. After much scheduling and canceling, I was able to photograph all 18 units, including myself. One person refused to be photographed and he is represented by his interior front door. This project was presented in a group show with the art collective Unit 2, in 2008. 

Emancipated Sisters, 14 and 16 yrs old, 2007

Click HERE to view all 18 portraits.