Layered Histories

What if buildings could speak? What if the streets we walk every day could whisper the stories of the people and events that shaped them? In Layered Histories, artist Caroline Hays invites us to listen to the silent narratives embedded in iconic cities, landmarks, and spaces. Her work explores the complex cultural shifts that have defined these places, using layers of texture, shapes, and colors to reflect both historical events and personal experiences. Each piece begins with a map, grounding the work in geography before evolving into a multi-dimensional reflection of a location's past. 

Hays' process is both meticulous and intuitive. The layering of architectural forms drawn from a city's history creates a visual dialogue between past and present. The neutral color palette evokes nostalgia, reminiscent of aged photographs and history books, while gold leaf and splattered paint add an element of the human touch—marking time, memory, and reverence. These shimmering details remind us that places are not just backdrops; they hold significance, shaped by generations of lives and stories that continue to unfold. If you look closely, you may find the Harrison Center's address in one of the pieces. 

Layered Histories is more than a collection of works—it is an invitation to step into a place's narrative. Each textured surface encourages viewers to engage with the history beneath their feet and reflect on their own connections to the spaces they inhabit. By blending research, artistic intuition, and storytelling, Hays transforms cityscapes into living, breathing testaments to time. Visit the City Gallery this April to experience the layers of history waiting to be uncovered.

The show is available to see anytime in April, Monday through Friday, 9 to 5, and available on our online gallery.