Hoarder House

Photographic series

2011

On September 22, 2011 I had the opportunity to document a house in Plattekill, NY that had been reported to the Ulster County SPCA as having feral cats living in it by the new owner of the house.  The situation appeared to be an extreme example of animal hoarding and neglect.  This series of photos documents the interior of the house, but cannot begin to describe the smell and oppressive feeling of being in the space.  It was apparent that at least one person was living in this house with over 30 cats, as there was fresh milk and food in the refrigerator.  The entire house was filled with garbage, feces, mold and the intense and highly concentrated smell of ammonia and rotting organic matter.  Most of the garbage bags seen in the photos are completely filled with cat feces.  After my initial reactions of horror, anger and disgust, I found myself feeling pity and sadness for whomever was living under these conditions; human and animal alike.  As of the publishing date of this website no one has been identified or apprehended for any crime related to charges of animal cruelty; the investigation is ongoing.

Limited edition prints from this series are available in two sizes, as well as a 14 page “print on demand” artist’s ‘zine from the series for $6.  Please contact the artist directly through the contact link for details.