Coastal Defence is a series of engravings that explore coastal erosion, ocean conservation, and climate change from both local and global perspectives. The series includes: South Street, Alphabet City, 55 Water Street, Manhattan Beach, Interstate 95, Mill Basin.
The work explores the world above and below the sea, examining ideas of home, connectedness, place, and loss. It reflects on how the ocean links coastal regions globally, drawing connections between Norfolk’s coastline and other coastal areas worldwide, all of which face the impact of rising sea levels.
These engravings incorporate studies of rock armour and reefs built to fortify the Norfolk seawall, alongside maps depicting the 1953 flood damage at Sea Palling, a Norfolk coastal village, and projected flood maps of New York.
The series aims to deepen the understanding of Norfolk’s ongoing battle with coastal loss, questioning the role of identity, memory, experience, history, and narrative in shaping our conceptions of place and home.