Ronald Waite

ON THE GROUND-

On the Ground started as a project to help myself deal with the massive amounts of trash (usually consumables) scattered and endlessly fluttering, seemingly unnoticed, throughout the streets of Philadelphia.  I wanted a way to show the scale of the problem as well as the amplification from one small item to the tons of trash filling our streets, waterways and landfills.  In order to do this I created  certain parameters to keep the project in check as well as give it form: 

1. How: Cell phone. This allows a certain level of discreetness and freedom 
2. What: Trash on the ground. At this time the project is only focused on the trash that exists within my immediate environment
3. Why: To help myself deal with the frustration of the myriad of thoughtless ways we, as humans, deal with the environment
4. When: Usually when walking  my dog, Memphis. I usually play it like a game, looking for colors themes, interesting patterns, repetitions or like products.
5. Break it down into workable units or "SQUARES": The images are arranged together thematically (color harmony, like objects, subject matter, etc.) There are 9 images to a group at a size of 24"x24". These can be printed individually to highlight the themes in the SQUARES. The can also be printed in a banner form consisting of many SQUARES put together emphasizing the magnitude of the problem.
6. Have a overall framework to build around: Starting with the photos, 100 SQUARES are put together and printed, then 500 SQUARES, then 1000. Banners have already been printed for a show at Gravy Gallery in June of 2017.
7. Final arrangement:  Individual pieces should be hung side by side and top to bottom, filling the existing walls. The banners shall also be hung to cover the existing walls. While the banners work well in an outdoor environment, the individual pieces work better inside.

So far ON THE GROUND has amassed close to 200 SQUARES, 10 banners and over 15,000 photos!