Construct is a word that alludes to invention, building, and interpretation. As applied to the double exposed photographs in this show, it is also meant to allude to the fabrication of identity. The two themes illustrated in the photographs are oppositional in nature, yet inexorably linked through world history and a blood relationship.

One layer of each photograph documents a photo shoot that explored the gay underground in Europe in the 1920’s. The second layer of each picture documents the items most treasured by a German war veteran who immigrated to Canada after Word War II. The chance juxtaposition of images creates new meaning when the context of history and personal relationships is considered.

When I shot the photographs of his most prized possessions, it was because I knew he was going to die within the year. I have always had a difficult time coming to terms with this man—without him I would not exist, and with him many others have been killed.

A vehement and vitriolic man, my grandfather was easy to dislike, but when I look at a photograph of myself I can see how much I look like him. There is no doubt that a part of him lives on in me, as much as I might like to divorce myself from that reality and start with a clean slate...

Ultimately I am curious about who any of us really are- and I start my investigation with my grandfather and myself.