IN THE TRENCHES
Hart Island, New York

by Mary C. Leto and Patricia Sahertian

Artist's Statement

A serendipitous set of events drew our attention to New York City's potter's field on Hart Island where a story, regarding the plight of thousands of poor forgotten souls buried there, has remained quietly hidden for almost a century and a half. We set out to create an artist's book consisting of 32 pages in an edition of three.

Unable to visit Hart Island, we were left to imagine thousands of buried children and to tell their stories through creativity and design. Some pages were drawn, others linoleum block printed, still more painted, collaged, ink-jet transfers, rubber stamped; colored pencils and even staples were used to create the trenches.

This is a story inspired by so many past and present New Yorkers who have been touched by Hart Island. The sheer number of children, infants and stillborns interred on Hart Island in the 19th century particularly affected us. This book is dedicated to them.

Thanks to the Hart Island Project for providing inspiration and information.