In 2022, I had the great honor of being named one of two Creators in Residence for the Los Angeles Public Library based on my work as a photographer documenting Los Angeles at the time.

My project was to produce a photobook (titled “Knowledge Based”) focused on documenting one library branch in each of the six districts, photographing the architecture and surrounding area to present a portrait of each library in context with the communities they serve. Initially, that was going to be the entire project but once I got started, another idea took root in my head.

In the process of selecting which branches to feature in the photobook, I did a great deal of research into the library districts themselves. Systems have always fascinated me so I began to think about ways to incorporate this network into my final project.

This was the beginning of my work on “The Library Zine”, a printed piece featuring every branch in all 6 districts that was distributed to everyone who attended the exhibition opening in October 2022. The book contents consisted of a photograph of each LAPL library, overlaid with an illustration highlighting an architectural aspect of each structure. 

The finished publication was a milestone in the body of work I’ve produced since starting Nonstndrd Creative, spawning several additional collaborations with the Los Angeles Public Library including posters and a limited edition Library tote bag. The conceptual significance of successfully melding my photography and design practices on such a high profile project reshaped the direction of both, laying the foundation for the work I’ve produced since.