Artist Statement:

These photographs were taken at LifeLine Foods in Saint Joseph, Missouri. The images detail the various sections of the plant’s interior as well as display the machines and necessary equipment for processing the corn seed into its separate uses. The plant is comprised of three critical components in addition to the packing and warehousing area. The first is the corn elevator which takes in corn from local farmers, dries it, and stores the grain until it can be used. The second portion of the plant, the corn mill, breaks down the corn seed and separates it for independent use. The third area shown in the series is used for ethanol production.

Growing up in the Midwest I have found myself continuously influenced by the farming community. I see grain as the link on both a national and global scale for the Midwest. As much of my work reflects this interest, I look at agriculture and its impact on our surroundings. I feel this series of images convey the level of energy throughout the plant. While there are only a few figures present, much of the equipment is in motion. It is in this motion where I find the opportunity to create images that capture the rhythmic patterns of industrial America.