Cherry Blossoms Reflection at Tidal Basin

Description

Artist Statement

I’m a graphic designer who photographs patterns, forms and color that inspire me. Growing up and living on Capitol Hill for most of my life, I’m familiar with the streets, sidewalks and alleys of this wonderful community that I call home. About 2 years ago I started taking photos on a continuous basis, capturing everyday objects at different angles, usually something that was man-made juxtaposed with a natural element. Water became something that when the light was right, reflected back the everyday object in an intriguing way. Looking down to see what was up, layered with the leaves, dirt or gravel from the ground, gave a new perspective. Sometimes turning the reflective image upside down added another dimension. This area continues to inspire me and I hope to bring a new light on the everyday object like the row houses and brick sidewalks that make Capitol Hill so special.

Artist Biography

Monica Servaites works as a graphic designer. She grew up on Capitol Hill and returned here after earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from West Virginia University in Morgantown, WV. After a brief stint in San Francisco, she returned again to Capitol Hill where she has helped with transcribing interviews with the Ruth Ann Overbeck Capitol Hill History Project and has helped volunteer at the Hill Center. Working at design studios for 20 years, she continues to photograph the city and uses it as a catalyst to inspire her designs.