These are photographs of the root systems of toppled trees that line the banks of the Mississippi River near my home in St. Paul. 

At first glance they are familiar looking natural forms - roots, bark, stones, and plants.  A closer look reveals glimpses of ancient creatures, primordial figures, and mysterious faces - as if they have always existed in the inner life of these trees, and are now released. 

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 The upturned root systems have been washed and eroded, year after year by flood waters then dried in the summer sun, exposing beautiful textures, colors, and patterns. Otherworldly spaces and places in shades of brown, gold, and gray, wait in the underbelly of these wonderful trees. Through a simple process of mirroring a single, un-manipulated photograph these hidden spaces and places are unveiled.