Grove Farm Residency

Echoes of History

Exploring Roots through Collage

My residency at Grove Farm in Hesston, PA, part of the Juniata College Field Station facilities, was a deeply immersive experience that allowed me to explore the layered histories of Huntingdon County. Nestled on 365 acres along Raystown Lake, the setting itself was a reminder of the region’s rich agricultural and industrial past. Over the course of three weeks, I worked closely with local historical societies, drawing inspiration from artifacts that speak to the resilience and resourcefulness of these small communities.

Through a process of deconstruction and reconstruction, I transformed these historical materials into patchwork paper collages, mirroring the way history is continually repurposed and reinterpreted. Each piece became a reflection of the stories, industries, and identities that have shaped the region. This project not only deepened my appreciation for the interconnectedness of place and memory but also reinforced the power of art in preserving and reimagining history.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our 18 Participating Organizations

As the Grove Farm Residency project concluded, I was deeply grateful to the 18 participating organizations that generously opened their doors, shared their collections, and entrusted me with their stories. Each organization, with its unique beginnings and passionate dedication, played a vital role in shaping the tapestry of our community’s history.

These collaborations brought together people from various places and walks of life, fostering connections that enriched our understanding and development. By providing access to their facilities, archives, and narratives, these organizations broadened my perspective and allowed us to create something truly special, honoring the legacy of our region. For more information, I have provided each participating organization below.

The paper clothing or collage wearables in the Echoes of History series explore the ways place and identity are intertwined. Constructed from archival materials, these garments reflect the industries, traditions, and personal histories that have shaped Huntingdon County over time. Each piece reimagines historical documents, photographs, and textures into layered compositions, symbolizing how the past continues to define us. While the quilt collages in this project highlight the influence of community, these wearable works examine the roles we take on and the spaces that shape our sense of self.

MORE WEARABLES TO COME…

The three collective elements that will compose this collection...

Quilt Block Squares

As part of my ongoing exploration of community identity and history, my main focus at the farm involves creating quilt block squares. These patchwork narratives will serve as the backbone of Echoes in History Exhibition that will on Display at the Juniata College Museum of Art in Summer of 2025. These squares represent the fabric of local organizations and communities in Huntingdon County, brought to life through archival materials. Each square is a piece of history, capturing the essence of the people, places, and moments that have shaped the county over time.

Crazy Quilt Collage

While working on the quilt block squares, I will be collecting the leftover materials from each print. These remnants, though small, carry the weight of the history and stories I’m telling. During my 28 day stay, I’ll be using these materials to create a crazy quilt-style collage, a piece that will hang above the Mantel in Shuster Hall. This collage will serve as a patchwork of the diverse narratives and experiences of Huntingdon County, stitched together in a vibrant display of color and texture. The installation of this work will take place in the fall, with a reception to celebrate its unveiling.

Paper Clothing

In addition to the quilt block squares and the collage, I’ll be using the archival materials to create a series of paper clothing. This work will be exhibited alongside the quilt blocks at Juniata College’s Museum of Art. The paper clothing symbolizes the roles and identities we assume, shaped by our history and heritage. Each piece will reflect how our past continues to influence who we are today, providing a tangible connection between the threads of history and the fabric of our lives.