Two weeks. Real portraits, real voices — the corners, the blocks, and the everyday life that never makes the news. Then I give it back to Newburgh, free.
Frames already pulled from Newburgh blocks — the look this project brings to two weeks of portraits and stories.
I'm 18. Newburgh Free Academy, just graduated. I already spend my days shooting these streets — the corners, the buildings, the people who've been here longer than I've been alive.
This project turns that into something the whole city can see. Over two weeks in August, I'll photograph Newburgh's living history: longtime residents, the places that hold our stories, and the everyday life that usually goes undocumented.
Alongside the portraits I record short interviews — how the city changed, what people want remembered. Then I bring it home: a free public show and a printed booklet pairing each portrait with the person's own words, so neighbors can hold it in their hands.
Not a story told about Newburgh by outsiders — a record made by someone from here, and handed back to the people in it.
Longtime residents and everyday faces, shot with care and on their own terms.
Short recorded interviews — how the city changed, what people want remembered.
A free public exhibition at the Creative Communication Center, open to the whole city.
A printed report-back pairing each portrait with the person's own words — theirs to keep.
A month to remember Black history, resilience, and the freedom struggles of the people who built and held communities like ours.
Newburgh's living history belongs in that tradition. I want to document it and give it back during the very month that honors it — a record made here, shown here, kept here.
A young person's camera and a longtime resident's voice in the same frame — in a city usually described by outsiders. There's a place in it for you.
Been here a long time? Got a story the news never told? I want your portrait and your words.
Sit For A PortraitKnow someone who's held this community down — an elder, a shop owner, a whole block? Put me on.
Suggest SomeonePrinting, framing, and the booklet take resources. Help keep the show and the keepsakes free.
Get In TouchReach out to sit for a portrait, nominate a neighbor, or help bring the show and booklet to the whole city — free.
Email To Take Part