I. "Professional Identity"
As I underwent the process of updating my website, I revisited the words, phrases, and statements that I used over the years to describe my work. Writer, designer, planner. Ecology, resiliency, sustainability. Urbanism, theory, research. Despite the acquisition of job titles along the way, I recognize the difficulty of succinctly describing my professional identity. As fields merge and collaborative work occurs more frequently, I suspect the same challenge does and will continue to face others involved in the design and study of the built environment.
But is this a problem? It seems to complicate introductions at professional networking events and dinner parties. However, this very complexity might just strengthen its case. My undergraduate and graduate school programs were by design interdisciplinary. Combining history, craft, theory, and practice, they fused disciplines (landscape architecture, architecture, urban planning, etc.). Subsequent career opportunities demonstrated the value of this interdisciplinary background. I have found myself valuable in compiling and analyzing information, connecting seemingly disparate ideas, and aiding communications between professionals from different fields. This type of systems-thinking proves particularly relevant during discussions about “sustainability,” which require making connections between such fields.
II. The Bookshelf
III. "Landscape"
But what is the thread that connects these experiences together? The best word that comes to mind is “landscape,” Which immediately prompts hesitation, given the association of this word with bright red mulch and mowing equipment. Nonetheless, I consider landscape a powerful term. It encompasses the built environment and the natural environment. The physical landscape, the historical landscape. The social, cultural, and ecological patterns of the landscape.
In short, I consider myself a sort of “interpreter” of the landscape, and perhaps my core professional asset is an understanding of how the process of interpreting can influence decision-making. How we choose to shape the world around us, whether through landscape architecture, planning initiatives, etc., is more “successful” (more on that later) when the decision-making process is, in fact, grounded in thorough and thoughtful interpretation.
For now, I introduce my new and improved digital presence and look forward to connecting with you.
