BIO:
Sandy Hill grew up in a small town in Northeastern Ohio. She attended RIT and upon graduation began her career as a photojournalist in Boston. Her news and documentary work has received multiple awards and been published in newspapers and magazines in the U.S. as well as overseas.
In 2021 she had a solo exhibit at The Griffin Museum of Photography. Her personal work, including the project American Lawn Decor, has been included in curated group exhibits and a magazine.
She is currently reflecting on her perspective of the United States by meeting and photographing people with their lawn decorations while searching for images that portray American culture, the times, and the country we live in.
STATEMENT
After a tumultuous year filled with isolation and conflict I went in search for the innocence and optimism that I’ve always associated with our country’s population, even as we hold different views, beliefs or come from varied backgrounds. I found signs of this in the charm of a humble worn hobby horse, the joy of yards adorned with statues, and the pride of craftsmanship in wooden cutouts. The many different perspectives on what constitutes beauty or humor continue to intrigue me and draw me to a door to find who lives or works there. Rarely have the residents turned down my request for a quick portrait, instead they stand with dignity and pride, humor or mystery, alongside or in front of a fictional world created for us to enjoy.
My intention was to avoid judgment. Instead I felt the need to search for a connection to people who share my country, and regardless of beliefs, views or background chose to celebrate life during a pandemic and beyond.
As this project progressed it became clear that we can find connections even during times that seem to be driving us apart. That even if it’s something as simple as a lawn decoration, we can find ways to appreciate one another.
