I interviewed Diane Christiansen in August of 2014. She has lived in Chicago's Wicker Park neighborhood for approximately 29 years. Diane has an incredibly powerful story of the community that has been formed on her block, which she describes as small town-like. The painting I made depicts the entry to her studio from the backyard. Our interview took place in her studio because she said it is the place where she spends the most time and feels most at home. She describes the backyard and studio as located on nearly sacred ground, from which springs forth giant rhubarb plants and great love. Thanks for stopping by!
Special thanks to Stefano Vita for use of his music in the audio recording.