The term ‘storm surge’ refers to the abnormal rise of water generated by the spiraling winds of low-pressure storm systems. Historically the deadliest part of a hurricane, the storm surge of Hurricane Ian left high water marks on Fort Myers Beach homes and businesses up to 13.8 feet. This largely accounted for the preventable death of at least 148 people and the damage or destruction of all 3200 buildings in the city.

 

As an artist, my intention is never to put another’s pain on display. In this project I devoted my time to documenting those bodies and vessels brought in by rising waters and left scattered across the landscape as these waters receded. The boats were photographed were found, when possible with the permission of the residents upon whose properties they drifted. The fish were collected and then documented in a makeshift lighting studio in my hotel room.