Much of my work this past year was influenced by the political upheavals our world, country and state continue to experience. I was fortunate to bear witness to many marches, rallies and protests in Madison, Wisconsin this past year. These included: March For Our Lives, National Student Walkout, Families Belong Together, and #DreamActNow for DACA to name a few.
Curation was challenging, especially from larger events, ultimately choosing photos that were representative of the event and what it stood for. Additionally, my other work tends to come about through happenstance, and selections here were based on personal feelings related to when the moment occurred. Most photos were made in Madison, but I also have photos from Florida, Minnesota and other parts of Wisconsin.
In addition to politically related events, other highlights from this year include a theatre project documenting the production of “The Reistible Rise of Arturo Ui” from first reading through opening night. Another was photographing bands at the 2018 AtwoodFest. Here I made an attempt to capture all 16 groups, between two stages, racking up over 30,000 steps and making several stops at Mama Rokker’s buffet.
I was also interviewed about my work for YIELD Magazine, which was nice because it made me take a step back and reflect on where I’ve been and where I may be going. Lastly, I had photos selected for several online exhibitions.
One of the nicest and most thoughtful comments on my work came from my friend Karen who said:
“…I actually thought about you the other day. My class took a tour of the Wisconsin Historical Society and we were shown archived pictures, I was so blown away by how history was captured and so grateful for the photographer and his art. I immediately thought of you and how thankful I am to have met you and to know that you are capturing our history in your photographs, the ones future generations will see.”
So you can imagine what a highlight it was when the opportunity to have some of my work be part of the digital archive at the Wisconsin Historical Society arose. The final selection will be decided in 2019.
It became clearer to me this year that photography is truly a personal journey. I can only make photos for me, with a hope they will resonate with others, but not be disappointed if they don’t.
So, what lies ahead in 2019? More protests, marches and rallies. More personal work. I also have a goal to make time for long and short term projects. And what are these projects you may be wondering? Well, you’ll have to follow me on Facebook or Instagram to find out what 2019 brings!
Happy New Year!!!
Michael
new normal photography 