Curator · Artist · Forager
Lisa Lee Benjamin is a curator, artist, and practice-based researcher. working at the intersection of artistic practice, ecological thinking, and cultural studies. Her work is often plant-led and corresponds with relationscapes, alpine cultural landscapes, and more-than-human modes of knowing. She is the founder of Kulturfolger (ZH), Amöbe (Vals) and Amöbe Botanik (Baden) and currently conducts postdoctoral research at the Urner Institute Kulturen der Alpen (IDKA), University of Lucerne.
EDUCATION
2025–Present
Postdoctoral Researcher, University of Lucerne
Urner Institute Kulturen der Alpen (IDKA), Altdorf, Switzerland
2020–2024
Doctor of Cultural Studies (Dr. Des.), Insigni Cum Laude
Cultural Studies (GSL), University of Lucerne, Switzerland
2016–2020
MA Transdisciplinary Art, Zurich University of the Arts (ZhdK), Switzerland
2015–2016
CAS Curating, Zurich University of the Arts (ZhdK), Switzerland
1997
BSc Plant and Soil Science, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
1989–1993
Cate School, Carpinteria, CA, USA
PUBLISHED BOOKS & ARTICLES
Benjamin, L.L., Barns Barning- Making Ruins, Edizione Periferia, Spring 2026
Benjamin, L.L., Spur über Spur, Profil Magazine, ETH, Fall 2023
Benjamin, L. L., & Jonsdottir, A., Walking Memory, Syntopia Alpina, 2022, https://www.syntopia-alpina.ch/beitraege/walking-memory-im-valsertal-eine-kuenstlerische-auseinandersetzung-mit-kuenftigen-lebensweisen
Benjamin, L.L., Alpen Amöbe, Jahres Publikation Transdiciplinary Arts, ZHdK June 2020
Benjamin, L.L., (Roxy Grand), Black Water, Peter Hauser, Angst, Sturm & Drang, Zurich, 2020
Benjamin, L.L., I Am a Mountain Walking, Creative Alps Lab, ZHdK, June 2019
Benjamin, L.L., (Roxy Grand), Good Girl, Robida No. 4, Fall 2018
Benjamin, L.L. , (Roxy Grand), SunShade, Brigham Baker, Helmhaus Fall 2017
Benjamin, L.L. , Dakin, K., Pantiel, M. The Professional Design Guide to Green Roofs, Timber Press, October 2016
Benjamin, L. L. Co-Editor, Green Roof Issue, Pacific Horticulture, Fall 2013 ex: https://pacifichorticulture.org/articles/green-roofs-dry-in-the-sky/
Benjamin, L. L., Dewees, J., A Manifesto for the Urban Hedgerow, Pacific Horticulture, April 2011 https://pacifichorticulture.org/articles/a-manifesto-for-the-urban-hedgerow-2/
Eulenfedern, Amöbe, Vals, CH 2024
Alpen Amöbe, We Are Nature, Zürich, CH 2020
A Belly Rubbing Stones, We Are Nature, Zürich, CH 2018
Uncommon Bloom, Kulturfolger, We Are Nature, Zürich, CH 2017 Summation, Kulturfolger, We Are Nature, Zürich, CH 2017 Kulturfolger, Uncommon, Issue 2, We Are Nature & Hakuin Verlag, Zürich, CH 2017
Kulturfolger, Issue 1, SFZH, We are Nature, Hakuin Verlag, Zürich, CH 2016
PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITY
Amöbe Botanik Mar 2026 - Present
Founder, Amöbe Botanik is an exhibition space in the alt-stadt of Baden dedicated to plant-led practice. The space will offer exhibitions of foraged botanical installations and be the center point for classes and workshops around plant led practices. Baden, CH
Relationscape Lab, Urner Institute of Alpine Culture (IDKA) April 2025- Present
Post Doctoral Research, The Relationscape lab, offers the potential to explore new and promising avenues for the development in Alpine, transdisciplinary cultural research – weaving methods from both the humanities and cultural studies together with approaches from artistic practice-based research. The main aim will be to engage with “more than human” practices and topological experiences which have no known norm of creativity and require the simple act of being interested in the overall aliveness of the alpine realm. The Relationscape Lab furthers true exchange through experiments, practices, movement, publications and dialogical processes. Altdorf, CH
Invisible Goldfish Jan 2024 - 2025
Co- Founder, A collaboration with Eirini Sourgiadaki and Anna Rubi which provides workshops on working in situ under the construct of geotourism and generating situated knowledge for artist and other cultural professionals. Zürich, CH, Amorgos, GR
Alpine Art Space Guide Jun 2024 - Present
Co- Founder, The Alpine Art Space Guide is a project with colleague Anne-Lauer Franchette researching and archiving small art spaces and art projects throughout the alpine regions of Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, France, Lichtenstein and Slovenia. ZH, ZH & Vals, GR, CH
Alpine Futures Literacy – IDKA Oct 2023- Present
Research Fellow. The institute Kulturen der Alpen is creating a think tank for alpine futures literacy. In 2024 several pop-up labs and site-specific projects will be developing in alpine regions. One of which is Vals looking at Melioration, Mediation and Migration. Altdorf, CH
Amöbe Jan 2020 - Present
Founder, Amöbe is a library, lab and art space located in the village of Vals. It is a creative space which experiments with amoebic thinking, feeling and action, utilizing art, curation, design, gatherings, walks, exchange, and artistic interventions, as a means of production. There are local, national, and international artist exhibition with a focus on collaboration, contribution and exchange within the community.Vals, CH amoebe.ch, @amoebe_artspace
Forum Vals Dec 2019- Dec 2025
Board Member, Member, Forum Vals is a kaleidoscope of stories from Valsers and guests alike —sharing history, present and future of alpine culture in the Valsertal. Our mission is to address community issues as well as organize and promote cultural activities in the Valsertal.Forumvals.ch @forumvals. Vals, CH
Vals Lebt- Stallgeschichten Oct 2021- Dec 2025
Advisor/Curator, A series of three barns in Vals, providing art direction and curation for the Brügga Stall with biannual installations through Forum Vals. Vals, CH. https://vals.ch/kultur/vals-lebt/stallgeschichten/
Kunstzone Vals Mar 2019 - Present
Board Member, Kunstzone Vals has a vision to create a designated cultural zone (16 square kilometres) which facilitates art and artistic expression within the open, alpine landscape. The zone is the art itself and can include visual arts, music, literary forms, performing arts and architecture. This sets a new model for alpine zones and enhances social and cultural value.
Kulturfolger Mar 2015- Aug 2018
Founder, an artspace located in Zürich’s Kreis 3. Kulturfolger plays with the idea that culture is something nature does or is, thus creating a intra-active non linear perspective which navigates the multiplicity of being. Kulturfolger’s programme promotes Swiss artists, artistic and interdisciplinary cultural projects that, via different media, strategies and innovative modes of work, analytically and critically reflect the present moment. ZH, CH
@kulturfolger Kulturfolger.ch
We Are Nature Verein Mar 2015- Dec 2022
Co-Founder, we are Nature promotes the awareness of our own nature and the nature that surrounds us. To this end, the verein was a financial supporter of Kulturfolger, artist publications, and artist residencies. ZH, CH
E2E Economy into Ecology E2E Jan 2014 – Nov 2016
Co-Founder, Economy into Ecology (E2E) was a transformative group of experts and professionals across the governmental, agricultural, economic and social sectors dedicated to redefining the current economy based on ecological principals. We implemented a detailed ethnographic study of Panama/Swiss Bio Agricultural Exchange for the government of Panama in 2015. SF, CA, USA/Panama City, Panama
Benjamin Baum GmbH March 2014- Dec 2016
Co-Founder, an environmental design and consulting firm which specialized in aesthetics and agroecological systems, ensuring beneficial impact through inspired design. Our work was focused on improving and highlighting small scale agricultural systems, urban greening and agriculture, green roof and storm water management systems. We consulted the Panamanian government in the possibility of expanding their organic small scale agricultural production in 2015. SF, CA, USA/ZH, CH
SFZH (San Francisco Zürich Sister City ship) Feb 2013- Nov 2016 Head of Urban Development A partnership between the San Francisco Bay Area and Zurich region of Switzerland aimed at fostering knowledge sharing between governments, companies and institutions in these two exciting and innovative regions. My role was coordinating a green roof biodiversity study on San Francisco Green Roofs and organizing several conferences and exchange tours on Urban Greening in both San Francisco and Zürich. SF, CA, USA, ZH, CH SFZH.org
Evo Catalyst LLC March 2004- Dec 2016
Founder, Principal, Environmental design practice implementing master planning, green infrastructure and space design to integrate art, people and place. Residential, institutional and commercial design. Clients include Whole foods, Elkstone Farms, Elk Creek Ranch, and L.A. Museum of the Holocaust. SF, CA, USA
Alpine Initiatives 501-C3 Nov 2008 March 2022
Co-Founder, board chair, advisor, A non-profit organization engaging the snow sports community in the world through sustainable initiatives. Steamboat Springs, CO, USA ZH, CH
Urban Hedgerow May 2008 Dec 2021
Founder, A collective of artists, scientists, entomologists’ gardeners, and active citizens who fostered awareness and space to allow wildness back into the city. SF, CA, USA
Colour Collective Feb 2013 Dec 2020
Co-Founder, A team of artists, garden designers, and fashion designers building installations based on creativity, colour, and history. We have participated in Chelsea Fringe and continue to do small interventions. SF, CA, USA, London, UK
UG Lab Mar 2012 – Dec 2015
Co-Founder, A collective of experts in collaboration with Zurich University Green Roof Competency Center (ZHAW) in the green roof and urban greening field providing professional consultancy services, research and education worldwide. ZH, CH, SF, CA, USA, LONDON, UK
Dalen Group Jan 2013 – March 2014
Board Member and Advisor, Sustainability consultancy with a focus on the built environment.Dalengroup.com, London, UK
We Forest Jan 2011- Dec 2017
Advisory Board Member, an international organization dedicated to sustainable reforestation. Weforest.org, San Francisco, CA, USA
Green Roof Alliance June 2009- Dec 2016
Co-Founder, Advisor, Promoting green roofs and education in the San Francisco Bay Area. Greenroofalliance.com San Francisco, CA, USA
Growwest Symposiums Feb 2008- Nov 2012
Co-Founder, Promoting Green Roofs and Education in the Rocky Mountain West Growwest.org Denver, CO, USA
Sustainability Lab May 2012- Nov 2013
Junior Researcher, A research lab founded by Micheal Ben Eli, to accelerate the learning practices to ensure a better world through the five principles of sustainability. Sustainabilitylabs.org, NY, NY, USA
Sprouts May 2006 - Nov 2009
Founder, Promoting and installing Organic food gardens in Northwest Colorado. Steamboat Springs, CO, USA
Mountain Roots LLC April 2004 - Nov 2009
Founder, Garden design and installation company in Northwest Colorado. Steamboat Springs, CO, USA
Northwest Colorado Agricultural Alliance Sept 1998 - Dec 2003
Advisory Board Member, Promoting a future for ranching and agriculture in Northwest Colorado. Steamboat Springs, CO, USA
Harry’s Ski Shop Nov 1998- Mar 2002
Retail. Steamboat Springs, CO, USA
Cugino’s Restaurant Nov 1996- Dec 2005
Bartender, Server, Italian restaurant.
Steamboat Springs Ski Area Race Crew Nov 1996- Dec 2005
Set up ski racecourses for big air, freestyle and Solomn, support for ski races. Steamboat Springs, CO, USA
Hawkins Soil Consulting, March 1995- Dec 1997
Internship and junior soils consultant, worked with soils consultant Sue hawkins who dealt with transition of dairy farms from conventional to organic. Bristol, VT, USA
Mary’s Flower Farm March 1994- March 1998
Grower on a wholesale organic flower farm, Bristol, VT, USA
Shelburne Farms Dec 1995 – March 1997
Internship, Milker/ Farm Hand, 600 Acre Organic Dairy Farm. Burlington, VT, USA
ART EXHIBITIONS (chronological order)
Amöbe Lab: Samuel Schranz March- June 2025
Using various tones from thin sheets of Valser stone. Samuel creates sound compositions reflecting the landscape of Vals. His residency will include the Amöbe as a sound studio and several performances in the space. Amöbe, Vals, CH
Light: Claudia Schmid Nov 2025- March 2026
After decades of interest and study, an installation of various aspects of light found within the Survelva filled the space of Amöbe. From light faded folded motifs, to a large yellow industrial installation of PVC resting on vintage brown insulators to a collage of images within the Safiental Wasserwerk. Claudia’s Photography and Large-scale installations rotate over several months. Amöbe, Vals, CH
Heartbeat in the Silence: Eriko Nagata Sept – Nov 2025
Three tons of gravel was installed in Amöbe to create a Japanese garden and place of reflection by artist, Eriko Nagata. Several full moon interventions and workshops accompanied Nagata’s Garden involving community members in appreciation of local materials. Amöbe, Vals, CH
Amöbe Lab: Piero Good July 2025
Collected images were on view in Amöbe during Piero’s summer residency of rest and river time. Amöbe, Vals, CH
Design am Rhein with Ruth Kung July 2025
Co-Artist. Ruth exhibited ceramic works made with pigment ground from Valser stone. Her works were accompanied with a hanging floral installation by Lisa Lee Benjamin and the exhibition was part of Design am Rhein. Amöbe, Vals, CH
Amöbe Lab: Manuela Langer May- June 2025
Manuela Langer created a fantastical world within the Amöbe that softens the hard edges of Vals with the arms of an octopus. She also made several interventions within the village. Amöbe, Vals, CH
Amöbe Lab: Olia Zahkatova Feb- March 2025
Olia Zahkatova, Painter, experimented with larger formats and Storytelling. Amöbe, Vals, CH
Rutsch und Spiel Winter 2025
Curator, Heidy Wirz, Multiple Media Artist and Sculptor Based in Zürich will show two interactive marble sculptures which propel us into the future. Amöbe, Vals, CH
Stall Geschichten: Augen- Blicken Dec 2024-May 2025
Curator, Heidy Wirz, Multi- Media Artist and Sculptor Based in Zürich projects 100 1-minute films on a dinner setting table. Video content is about craft and environment from Vals and abroad. Brügga Stall, Vals, CH
Klap-Machine Nov 2024
Vals Native Lukrezia Walker exhibited her Klap Machine, a variation on a traditional loom with various purposes. Amöbe, Vals, CH
Forelle Summer 2024-2026
Curator, Piero Good will conduct a long-term residency beginning in spring 2024 and create sculptures and tours centered around the Valser Rhein and trout habitat. Vals, CH
Foto Ping Pong Dec 2023- Feb 2024
Co-Curator, an exhibition with Fritz Hauser and Adrian Vieli corresponding between Vals and Piemonte, Italy through sound and photography. Amöbe, Vals, CH
Stallgeschichten: Flooded but not Forgotten Winter 2023
Curator, Ukrainian artist and local Vals resident Olia will paint memories of the flooded village of Zervreila, any proceeds from the exhibition will go to the survivors of the Kachowskaja Dam Tragedy, Brügga Stall: Vals, CH
Weaving the Landscape Fall 2023
Curator, Highlighting Artist Rosemary Prica-Tonz: Textiles and photography of plants, Amöbe, Vals, CH
Stall Geschichten: Self-Writing stories Summer/ Fall 2023
Co- Curator, A participatory artist action with four open stories of Vals to be added to by visitors and locals. Brügga Stall, Vals, CH
Drawings Feb 2023
Curator, A series of ink and charcoal drawing from artist Heiko Schätzle, result of a week-long drawing residency with bitte langsam, Amöbe, Vals, CH
Stallgeschichten: Das Rauschen der Flüsse in h-Moll Dec 2022 - July 2023
Curator, Bittelangsam, artist duo from Zürich, Andrea Züllig and Heiko Schätzle lived in Vals for a six-week residency and created a sound and sculptural installation. Also included a performance with Suzanne Escher, Brügga Stall & Amöbe, Vals, CH
Source Oct- Nov 2022
Co- Curator, A group show of paintings and textiles reflecting the motif of the water in Vals, artists Lusianna Gonzàlez Quattrini, Iris Delruby Ruprecht & Emilie Bruner, Amöbe, Vals, CH
Walkways July- Oct 2022
Curator, A ceramic exhibition of various connected pieces and local stones by American artist Ian Mcdonald. Amöbe, Vals, CH
Brügga Stall: Walking Memory Dec 2021- Aug 2022
Co-Artist, Co-Curator with Ásta Jonsdottir, an Icelandic artist interviewed 9 local women and created a sound installation with artistic elements, several participatory artist actions were made during the 6-month installation, Brügga Stall & Amöbe, Vals, CH
Rainbow Oct 2021
Artist, A cacophony of flowers spills in rainbow form from the table. This was the last harvest at the beginning of October. Amöbe, Vals, CH
Thistle Sept 2021
Artist, Abundant Local thistles were collected and allowed to set seed in the space signifying the end of summer. Amöbe, Vals, CH
Sleeping Blue, Aug 2021
Artist, Blue Delphiniums stand tall with a sleeping form draped in textile in the background. Amöbe, Vals, CH
Working Library July 2021.
Co- Curator, Rob Hamelijnk and Neinke Terpsma, from FGA in Rotterdam, made a weeklong residency and made an exhibition and detailed exploration of the Amöbe Library. Amöbe, Vals, CH
Table Meadow June 2021
Artist, A roll of hay was found at the bottom of hillside and augmented with flowers creating a meadow on a table. Amöbe, Vals, CH
Moss May 2021
Co-Artist, A collective work with Emilie Bruner. Various moss species were collected and displayed. Left to their own devices they sprouted ferns. Amöbe, Vals CH
Strings March- April 2021
Co-Artist, Collaboration with Carolina Marquez Bernard, old washing lines and forget me nots add depth to tangled families, history and politics.Amöbe, Vals, CH
Lawine 1951: Vals Erinnert Sich, Feb-March 2021
Curated by Laura Berni. An exhibition which commemorates and explains the avalanche of 1951. In 2020 interviews of the villagers who experienced this tragic winter which took the lives of 19 Valsers. Amöbe, Vals, CH
What’s this? 73 Questions July-Aug 2020
Co-Curator, A collaborative exhibition about self-image and media for young Swiss adults inspired by Lily Pong, Amöbe, Vals, CH
Rose Collective July 2020
Co- Artist, A weeklong residency with Swiss artist Elodie Pong collecting and making syrup from the gardens and Meadows of Leis. Vals, CH
Textured Color June 2020
Co- Artist, an exhibition with Lea Gerber of Atelier Volvox mixing textiles and flowers, Amöbe, Vals, CH
Natural Painting and Pigments June 2020
Co-Artist and Curator, A workshop and exhibition with local artist Rita Tönz using local and garden vegetable pigments, Amöbe, Vals, CH
Herbs and Sticks May 2020
Co- Artist, A collaboration with Emilie Bruner gathering the first herbs of spring and pairing with old botanical drawings of the alps, Amöbe, Vals, CH
Ruth Rieder Retrospective Dec 2019- Jan 2020
Co-Curator, Artist Ruth Rieder showcases her work over the last 2 decades to her native Vals, she lives and works in Luzern, Amöbe, Vals, CH
Alpen Amöbe Feb-Mar 2020
Artist, Master final exhibition, publication release, Lithography, plant installation and artist talk, Amöbe, Vals, CH
Vibrating Zone Oct 2019
Co- Curator, LA RADA, a co- production and exhibition with Delphine Chapuis Schmidt & Simon Ledergerber. Locarno, CH
Myrtilles Oct 2019
Curator, Lukrezia’s Stall, Amöbe, A weeklong residency with 10 artists from Marseilles called the Chuglu Collectif, a participatory art practice of painting a local Valser barn with pigment made from native blueberries collected at 1800 m.u.m, Vals, CH
Brücke 49 Aug 2019
Curator, 11 Swiss artists, 3 apartments, a two-week curated installation for the opening of Herberge, Vals, CH
Introduction Impossible: Facts of Transformation Jun 2019
Artist, Photo Mural, Group Show Park Platz, Zurich CH
A Forager’s Ikebana Aug 2018
Artist, Floral arrangements, La Dependance Residency, St. Imier, CH
In the Flow Feb 2018
Artist, Bottle Poetry, Group Show Gesseneralle, Zürich, CH
Stones Lay Where They are Thrown July 2017
Co-Curator, artist Brigham Baker, installation of stone turning machines and projected images, GMK, Zagreb, CR
Uncommon Bloom May June 2017
Co-Curator, Villa Renata, Exhibition exploring beauty, rarity and new narratives of the uncommon 9 artists Basel, CH
Hemberg Hochsitz May 2017
Co-Curator, Co-Artist, Exhibition of works in the forest with Manuela Langer for Ostschweiz Offentagen Hemberg, CH
Many Natures Oct 2016
Jules Maeght Gallery. Co-Curator Artists: Brigham Baker, Baggenstos/Rudolf, Ckö, Flavio Curry, Peter Hauser, HuberHuber, Manuela Langer, Nando Alvarez-Perez SF, CA, USA
Taxonomy of Plants May 2014
Vitrine Gallery, Co-Artist, Langstrasse, a collaboration with Blaze Gonzales, a tiny exhibition of the sterility of nature. Zürich, CH
Weeds for sale May 2014
Co-Artist with Blaze Gonzales, a play on value- installation and barter table of weeds, Colour Collective, Chelsea Fringe, London, UK
Cocoons May 2013
Co-Artist with the Colour Collective makes textile cocoons made by community to highlight the silk industry in east London, accompanied by clean graffiti, Chelsea Fringe, London, UK
Pop Up Discourse Spring 2013
Co-Curator, Foraged apero and wanted weeds discussion, Oakland, CA
Wanted Weeds April 2013
Artist, an installation bringing four valued plant species across the Atlantic, San Francisco Flower and Garden Show, San Francisco, CA, USA
Animal Architecture Winter 2013
Artist, Collection of bug hotels and habitats, Submission for Animal Architecture, Austin, TX, USA
Spontaneous Spore Planning Fall 2012
Co-Artist submission for a mossy green installation with mushroom based meeting spaces, Lausanne Jardine, Lausanne, LA, CH
The Serpentine Water, Fall 2012
Co-Artist, A virtual intervention on the St Regents Canal to bring more connectivity to East London. Garden Museum Challenge, London, UK
I love Vanessa Spring 2012
Collaboration With Moose Curtis, highlighting London’s butterflies and street weeds, Chelsea Fringe, London, UK
Weed Walks April, May, June 2012
Curator, A series of educational walks around San Francisco highlighting edible, native and nectar plants, Golden Gate Nature Fest, SF, CA, USA
Habitat Panel April 2012
Artist, A small bee hotel attached to a moveable archive machine, in Collaboration with Studio for Urban Projects, Archive Machine, Market Street Festival SF, CA, USA
Reclaim Market Street Fall 2011
Artist, A temporary installation of a tiny urban hedgerow beginning with a thin moss line and ending in a redwood forest at the SF Civic Center fountain, SF, CA, USA
Snowflakes Fall 2011
Co- Artist, Collaboration with Artist Moose Curtis, Car wheel hubs were the inspiration for this piece about carbon emissions, All I Can, Film Release & Conference, Whistler, BC, CA
Green Roof Doghouse Fall 2011
Created with Green Roof Alliance, A temporary doghouse placed on Valencia Street to bring awareness to green roofs, San Francisco Parking Day, SF, CA, USA
Live Light Spring 2009 & Spring 2010
Artist, Hydroponic light boxes made of custom resin for living room food production, American Institute of Architects, SF, CA, & Exit Art, NY, NY, USA
Meditative Remediation Fall 2009
Co-Artist, A collaboration with Emmanuel Donoval, an installation to instigate thought to water use in California’s wine country. Native plants were added to wetlands held in grape bins all surrounded by grape seed mulch, The Late Show Gardens, Sonoma, CA, USA
SELECTED PROJECTS (chronological order)
LANDSCAPE DESIGN
Peng Residence 2023
Plant design for renovation of the Peng residence, Vals, GR, CH
Leis Flower Garden 2019-Present
Cut flower garden and raw steel installation Vals, GR, CH
Brücke 49 Garden 2019
Flowers, set design and garden design for the opening of the Herberger Vals, GR CH
The Mothership Tangier 2019- 2020
Consulting for artist Yto Barrada in creating an artist residency project based on natural pigments and sustainable agriculture Tangier, Morrocco
Elkstone Farm 2004 - 2016
Private client, 600-acre property, master planning, strategy, vision, site design, conservation wildlife inventory, gardens, permaculture gardens, orchard design, agroforestry, tropical green house design, large scale production hoop house design, sustainable green house design, energy system design, value added products development, Steamboat Springs, CO, USA
Whole Foods Market Colorado Headquarters 2006 - 2010
Commercial Design for flagship store, Design of outdoor market, park and gardens, using integration of local artists and native edible plants, Boulder CO, USA
Apple Park (the spaceship) for Apple Corp. 2008 - 2009
Grass, bulb and plant Design, Consulting and Assistance to John Greenlee and The Olin Studio, Cupertino, CA, USA
Red Draw Ranch 2007 - 2009
Private client, site design, conservation inventory, trout pound design, habitat design, meadow restoration, Vail, CO, USA
Elk Creek Ranch 2005 - 2008
Private Development, 2,000-acre property site design, conservation inventory, habitat integration, landscape design, pond/water- way design and restoration, viewing area design. Meeker CO, USA
Two Rivers Ranch 2003 - 2007
Private client, 70-acre property site design, trail design, meadow restoration, river restoration, flood prevention and storm water systems, dry stone masonry, Steamboat Springs, CO, USA
BIODIVERSITY & HABITAT DESIGN
Circle Insekten Hotel 2019
2 m x 2 m Insekt hotel design & Installation, Bucher Villa, Niederweningen, ZH, CH
Frau Gerolds Insekten Hotel Sculpture and workshops, 2016
in collaboration with Kraut und Qwer, Frau Gerolds Garten, Zürich ZH, CH
BBG Bug Habitat 2015
A commission by the Brooklyn Botanic Garden for three artful bug habitat sculptures to be installed in their new Discovery Garden. Brooklyn, NY, USA
Urban Habitat Hedgerow Fall 2012
A temporary park and bug hotel making station, San Francisco Parking Day, SF, CA, USA
LONG TERM ART PROJECTS
Amöbe Lab 2025- present
The Amöbe artspace is given to selected artists for experimentation and freedom. A space for work, rest, play and ideas to emerge. Vals, GR, CH
Ruumuura: Remaking Mountains 2023-2024
An Artificial Reality Application for Smart Phones developed for Zürich Design Weeks 2023 which highlights Vals and the origins of the stone on Sechseläutenplatz in Zürich through historical and informational context. The project is a collaboration with Sacha Schwarz and Charlie Job. Zürich, ZH, CH
Kulturfolger Uncommon 2017
Kulturfolger, 11 topics, 11 exhibitions, 11 artists, 11 lectures, and 11 quote clubs Co-Curator, Zürich, ZH, CH
Kulturfolger: Many Natures May 2017
16 exhibitions exploring many natures: 20 artists from Zürich and San Francisco Co-Artist, Co-Curator Zürich, ZH, CH
TBA21 ZH 2016
Consulting and planning for Francesca Habsburg of TBA 21. Creating a proposal to move her permanent collection to Zürich. Creation and sketches of a Bio Art Lab, Encounter space and design for the proposed cultural center, Wein, AT & Zürich, CH
INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATIONS AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Chocolate Affairs by Economy into Ecology (E2E) 2014- 2018
A platform of new economical thinking based in ecological principles. A long-term project to create bi- national value changes through opportunities to build thriving economies, food sovereignty and services which build ecology. Panama and Switzerland.
Madagascar Project 2009 - 2014
A collaboration between Hope for Madagascar and Alpine Initiatives.Creation of permaculture demonstration gardens, courses and community development. Amblona, Madagascar.
Kithoka Amani Community Home 2008 - 2013
A collaboration between International Peace Initiatives and Alpine Initiatives. Community visioning, site design and implementation of farm, garden, green houses, waste systems for a community home for children orphaned by aids. Meru, Kenya.
GREEN ROOF DESIGN
Polkadots 2017
Green Roof Design in collaboration with Stephan Brenneisen and ZHAW, Magnolien Park, Basel, CH
Europa Alle Green Roof Garden Design 2017
Collaboration with Stephan Brenneisen and ZHAW for plant selection and green roof design, Zürich, CH
W Hotel SF 2014
Consulting for a vegetable garden and bees on the W hotel rooftop in SF, CA, USA
Umwelt Arena Green Roof Design 2012
Collaboration with Stephan Brenneisen and ZHAW for green roof design with varied habitats Zürich, CH
110 Avila 2012
Private client, vertical garden installation and succulent palm garden for a private residence SF, CA, USA
Heron’s Head Eco Center 2008 - 2010
Public Project, Native landscape, living filter systems and green roof design for the Eco Center community building SF, CA, USA
Green Roof Shelters 2009 - 2011
Private clients, Estates and demonstration projects, with John Little and Green Roof Shelters, provided the green roof design for shipping containers and other natural spaces such as the Barnes Wetland Trust. We designed the container in a garden by Nigel Dunnett which won a Silver Medal at the Chelsea Flower and Garden show, London, UK
Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust 2006 - 2010
Public Project Landscape and green roof design based on native grasses and culturally significant plants. LA, CA, USA
620 Jones 2010
Commercial design for a large restaurant and bar with a modern rooftop garden with lush, hardy and innovative planting, SF, CA, USA
Reed Green Roof and Residence 2007 - 2009
Private Client, green roof design, native meadow restoration, hardscape design, storm water system Steamboat Springs, CO, USA
MEDIA ARTICLES
The Bespoke Bug House, Gardenista, February 2016 https://www.gardenista.com/posts/trend-alert-the-bespoke-bug-house-urban-hedgerow/
How to Help Your Town’s Beneficial Birds and Bugs, Houzz, April 8, 2014, https://www.houzz.com/magazine/how-to-help-your-towns-beneficial-birds-and-bugs-stsetivw-vs~25320742
Architecture to Grow Everything, Steamboat Magazine, February 2013 https://www.steamboatmagazine.com/2013/02/24/6368/architecture-to-grow-everything
Weeds get respect at S.F. Garden show: Display challenges assumptions about unwanted invaders, San Francisco Gate, March 2013, https://www.sfgate.com/homeandgarden/article/weeds-get-respect-at-s-f-garden-show-4367453.php
Archinature, The Metropolitan Field Guide, August 2013
Making a home for bugs, Apartment Therapy, January 2012
Nesting in Style, Sunset Magazine, Spring 2012
Sustainable Design: Insight, Colorado Homes Magazine, Spring 2012
Hallowed Ground, Ecobuilding Pulse, March 2011
AIA vertical Garden Exhibition, The Dirt, American Society of Landscape Architects, February 2010
Cargotecture Movement: Green Roof Shelters, Sunset Magazine, August 2010
https://www.sunset.com/home/architecture-design/cargotecture-movement
Sprout hopes to grow and create gardens, Explore Steamboat, Summer 2009
AWARDS & HONORS
2013 “Wanted Weeds” Pacific Horticulture Silver Design Award San Francisco Flower and Garden Show, SF, CA, USA
2013 “Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust” GRHC (Green Roofs for Healthy Cities) Design Gold Award, Toronto, CA
2012 “Urban Hedgerow” Animal Architecture Award Honorable Mention, NY, NY, USA
2012 “620 jones” SGD (Society of Garden Designers) Small Urban Design Award, London, UK
2011 “Heron’s Head Eco Center” GRHC (Green Roofs for Healthy Cities) Design Award of Excellence, Toronto, CA
LECTURES & TALKS
Cordame: Cording Together, Sept 18-19, 2025
Workshop for Genus Loci Conference, IFEEA, Rome, IT
Walkshop: Cording in Tenna, Sept 3-5, 2025
Cording and relationscape workshop for ILEA’s WALKING Conference, Tenna, GR, CH
Relationscape of Vals, May 10, 2025
PhD Research Presentation, Schaaf Chromma, Vals, GR, CH
Flucht & Segen, May 4, 2024
Panel Discussion, Zentrum Glus, Vals, GR, CH
Trace of a Trace, June 22, 2023
Urner Institute Kulturen der Alpen, Altdorf, UR, CH
New Curation Through Many Natures, Nov 2017
Volumes Book Fair, Zürich, ZH, CH
We Are Nature, Oct 2016
Pacific Horticulture Conference, Sonoma, CA, USA
Fire Flowers, Apr 2016
Zürich, ZH, CH
SF & US Urban Agriculture Policy, May 2016
Zürich University of Applied Sciences, Wädenswil, ZH, CH
Rooftop Agriculture, March 2014
Trumark, SF, CA, USA
Urban Undoing, March 2014
Cleveland Urban Design Collaborative Cleveland, OH, USA
New Nature, Feb 2014
Nature By Design Conference, Minneapolis, MI, USA
The Great Undoing, Dec 2013
Air Yoga, Zürich, ZH, CH
Modern Green Roof Design, Oct 2013
Flora Grubb Gardens, SF, CA, USA
Urban Biodiversity, Oct 2013
Cities Alive Conference SF, CA, USA
Green Roofs For San Francisco, Sept 2013
SPUR, SF, CA, USA
Green Roof Policy, March 2013
Swissnex, SF, CA, USA
Urban Habitat, March 2012
Landscape Design Forum Merritt College, Oakland, CA, USA
Sustainable Green Roofs, Feb 2012
San Francisco City College, SF, CA, USA
Wetland Considerations, Feb 2012
Heron’s Head Eco Center, SF, CA, USA
Nature And Art, Nov 2011
Art And Sustainability Conference, Whistler, BC, CA
Insect Habitat, Oct 2011
Ruth Bancroft Garden, Garden Conservancy, Walnut Creek, CA, USA
Sustainable Cities, Sept 2011
Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Wädenswil, ZH, CH
Sustainable Design and Exploration, July 2011
Earth University, Costa Rica
Urban Hedgerows, May & June 2011
SF Art Institute & Flora Grubb Garden SF, CA, USA
Small Scale Organic Production and Community Building in Meru Kenya, Feb 2011
Salzburg Seminar Salzburg, AT
Vertical Garden Art, Oct 2010
American Institute of Architects, SF, CA, USA
Innovative Green Roofs, Sept 2010
Denver Botanic Gardens, CO, USA
Creative Green Roof Design, Sept 2010
Denver Convention Center, Progreen, Denver, CO, USA
Urban Habitat and Roof Design, Aug 2010
Bay Localize, Oakland, CA, USA
Vertical Gardens, June 2010
Half Moon Bay Garden Club, HMB, CA, USA
Hedgerows And Habitat, June 2010
Marin Art Center, Marin, CA, USA
Principles Of Permaculture, Oct 2009
Steamboat Rotary, Steamboat Springs, CO, USA
Talking Green, Nov 2008
Yampa Valley Sustainability Council, Steamboat Springs, CO, USA
TEACHING & WORKSHOPS
Mami Floral Arrangement with Kumiko Nagata, Amöbe, Vals, GR, CH Fall 2025
Wax Vases & Arrangements with Atelier Volvox, Amöbe, Zürich, ZH, CH Summer 2025
Non-Linear Thinking, GSL, University of Luzern, LU, CH fall 2024
Botanical & Flower Design, Atelier Volvox, Zürich, ZH, CH Fall 2019
Urban Agriculture Module, Roof Top Agriculture, ZHAW, Wädenswil, ZH, CH FS 2017
Fire Flowers Workshop with Maurice Maggi, Kulturfolger, Zürich, ZH, CH May 2016
Urban Agriculture Module: Vertical Gardens ZHAW, Wädenswil, ZH, CH FS 2016
Botanic Illustration, Farm Alley, Lagunitas, CA Summer 2015
Geography of Food Summer School “Romance of Agriculture”, ZHAW, Wädenswil, ZH, CH Summer 2013
Green Infrastructure and Design, ZHAW, Wädenswil, ZH, CH FS 2013
Urban Agriculture Module, ZHAW, Wädenswil, ZH, CH FS 2013
Living Architecture Class, San Francisco Art Institute (SFAI), SF, CA, USA Summer 2012
Green Infrastructure and Design, ZHAW, Wädenswil, ZH, CH HS/FS 2011-2012
Urban Habitat, 2-week workshop for Gardens for the Environment, SF, CA, USA Summer 2011
Organic Wheat Production in the Yampa Valley, The Granary, Hayden, CO, USA May 2011
Vertical Garden Workshop, Berkley Botanic Garden, Berkley, CA, USA Summer 2009
EDUCATIONAL TOURS
Culture and Creativity of Vals May 2025. Collaboration with Lukrezia Walker, organized for Residenzia, 20 artists in residence at Casa d’ Angel, tour of Amöbe, Brügga Stall, Lärchaboda stall, the Walker family weaving and woodworking studio. Vals, GR, CH
Green Roof Policy Tour CH June 2013. Organized for American government delegates from San Francisco, Portland, Chicago and New York, Zürich city officials also joined to tour and to highlight Swiss know and policy instruments. Zürich, ZH, CH
Green Roof Biodiversity Tour SF May 2013. Organized for the Swiss Consulate, Selected Parliament Ministers, and Zürich City Officials, a tour of San Francisco green roofs with policy discussion, SF, CA, USA
Urban Greening Tour Sf May 2013. Organized for Zürich City Officials and the Zürich Foreign Minister with follow up policy discussion SF, CA, USA
Foodward ZHAW Tour July 2011. An organized tour for ZHAW, exploring New York value addedfood systems, and an in depth look at urban gardens, artisan producers and value chains, NY, NY, USA
Permaculture, Passive Greenhouse Growing, CO and the Northeast, Spring 2009. A tour organized for Elkstone Farms and their employees to prepare for their first season of growing.
CONTINUING EDUCATION
2026 Nomad Atelier - Organization and Strategy Course, Online
2025 M’bari, Art Bodies, and Care at the end of the World, Bayo Akomolafe, Academy of Therapy Wisdom
2025 Art and Preservation, Swiss Institute, Julia Norton, Online
2025 Language and the Land, Advaya, Online
2025 Success, Landmark Education, Jerry Baden, Online
2025 Plant Movement, 3 Ecologies with Erin Manning, Brian Massumi and Oana Suteu Khintirian, Online
2025 On Being in Relation, Close Readings, Erin Manning & Fabrice Dubosc, Online
2025 Black Studies, Close Readings, Fabrice Dubosc, Online
2025 Creativity, Landmark Education, Jerry Baden, Online
2025 Floral Time, Joe Walsh, Berlin Art Institute, Online
2024 Cephalopod Dreams, 3 Ecologies with Erin Manning, Online
2024 Fermentation, 3 Ecologies with Erin Manning, Online
2024 Art as Soil, Swiss Institute, Online
2023 A degree of Predictability, Swiss Institute, Online
2023 Dancing with Mountains with post activist philosopher Bayo Akomolafe, Online
2023 Reimagining Craft in Contemporary Art, Swiss Institute, Online
2022 Ecology of Love with Scientist Andreas Weber, Advaya, online
2022 Rural Clay and Ancient Pit Fire, Artisans of Now, Cantieri Creativi, Rome, Italy
2022 Botanical Drawing Course, Clos Mirabel, Pau, France
2021 Materials and Process, Swiss Institute, Online
2021 The Beauty & Strength of Wild Plant Fibers, Fibershed Learning Center, Online
2021 Wild Inks from Natural Pigments, Fibershed Learning Center, Online
2021 History of Color Materiality, Swiss Institute, Online
2019 Indigo: Dying and Printing, Berkley Botanic Garden, Berkley, CA, USA
2016 - 2019 Medien Form Farbe, Lithography/Stein Druck, Zürich, CH
2014 The Movement Blueprint, Facilitation Course, SF, USA
2011 Pluralistic Networks, Communications Course Certificate, SF, USA
2011 Organic Seed Alliance, Fundamentals of Seed Production Boulder, CO, USA
2009 The Stone Foundation, Mallorcan Stone Wall Structure, Mallorca, ES
2008 Green Roofs for Healthy Cities, Green Roof Design, SF, USA
2002 Colorado Rocky Mountain Permaculture Institute, Permaculture Design Degree, USA
SKILLS
Curation, Creative Collaboration, Project Management - All Aspects, Visioning, Concept, Development, Systems Thinking, Fundraising, Sustainable Design and Development Strategy Value Assessment, Community Design and Engagement, Project, Documentation, Public Speaking, Professional Presentation, Didactic and Teaching Skills, Presentation Media Skills, Research and Archiving, Master Planning, International Projects Garden Design, Green Roofs, Vertical Gardens, Agroforestry, Permaculture, Cut Flower Gardens, Vegetable Gardens, Keyline Gardens, Forest Gardens, Wetland Creation and Restoration, Habitat Restoration, Conservation, Wildlife and Vegetation Inventories, Urban Agriculture
Installation, Artistic Director, Producer, Botanical Illustration, Aquarelle, Ikebana/, Mami flower arranging, Contemporary craft making, Foraging and Preserving, Lithography
LANGUAGES
English: Mother Language
German: Fluent: B2/ B2
Swiss German: Full Understanding
Spanish: A2/ A2
ORIGIN
Nationality: United States of America
Country of Residence: Switzerland since 2016
Date of Birth: 19/05/1975, Boulder Colorado
Status: Single
Visa Status: B