We are not forest experts. Our fascination with the forest began when we noticed the rapid decline of the white ash trees in our region. We learned to identify ash by the symptoms of infestation, rather than the healthy appearance of the species.
This is a relevant way to learn our landscape today, because the modern forest is defined by collapse. The compounded onset of insect predators, illnesses, and blights transported across the globe by humans makes this moment distinct from naturally occurring disturbance cycles.
We had to be startled into looking. Despite the tragedy of potential extinction, seeing the complexity of our ecosystems brings incredible joy. Our research methodology is rooted in humble observation, often spurred by loss.
Project Updates
Processing Collapse builds ashwood display cabinet for Mountain Athletic Club at the Skene Memorial Library (Fleischmanns, NY).
In collaboration with Collin Miller, M.A.C. vintage baseball captain and NYCDEP Watershed Forester, we constructed a display case using EAB-afflicted ash. The newly unveiled cabinet contains artifacts of Mountain Athletic Club, the historic baseball club of Fleischmanns.
Work-in-Progress: Hand-carved monument to Eastern hemlock for the Mountain Top Library (Tannersville, NY).
We are crafting hyper-magnified hemlock boughs and local history display cases to surround the vestibule of the Mountain Top Library. The wood for this project came from a hemlock that uprooted over the Kaaterskill Rail Trail in Haines Falls on the grounds of Mountain Top Historical Society.
Follow this project and our ongoing research about the historic extraction and modern collapse of a region-defining tree.
Processing Collapse presents at SENYCon 2026
We introduced our project to members of the Southeastern New York Library Resources Council (SENYLRC) on April 10, 2026.
We shared our approach to research, collaboration with libraries, and a few exciting projects that are underway.
Our residency at Woodstock Artists Association & Museum transformed the YES Gallery into a research center and design studio. We used the space to develop a public artwork proposal for the new Woodstock Library.
Click here to read dispatches from our time in residence.
Processing Collapse presents Lodged and project fundraiser at Hudson Valley Seed Company
Visit the sculpture at 11 Airport Rd, Accord, NY.
Spoons, pallets, and other handcrafted ashwood sculptural objects for sale in the HVSC store. Proceeds support our projects in public libraries.
