Convicts Give Their Younger Selves Advice in Striking Photo Series
Mar 05, 2014 20:15
A little over a year ago, photographer Trent Bell's friend got sentenced to 36 years in jail. This friend was someone Bell had grown up with; someone who shared a similar background and had gotten into some trouble.
Bell thought about this friend, which led him to contemplate the series of events that lead people to jail and the stories they tell themselves about them. This curiosity was the basis for a new series of photos that uncover what separates the average person from a convict.
The idea was going to be initially restricted to portraits of prisoners. But after some deliberation, Bell and his team decided on an idea that was more of a collaboration between the photographer and subject. The convicts would write letters to their younger selves to go along with their portraits - only if they agreed to do it.
“The 12 inmates we photographed were the only ones who volunteered,” Bell says. “After all the public opinion, trial and such it turns out most inmates want to harden themselves and just keep their heads down and do their time. But the ones who did this project were very cooperative.”
The photography project debuted at the Engine gallery in Biddeford, Maine, in January.
“In reading most of the letters I found myself feeling surprisingly similar to these men,” Bell says. “But I also realized that either their situations were different than mine or that they had made incremental decisions that led them to these situations. The whole experience really made me look at my own life and reflect on why I’m ‘me.’”
Watch a behind-the-scenes video below, and look at the photos that follow:
The world of international dating can be thrilling yet challenging, especially when language barriers come into play. As more people seek love across borders, effective communication becomes paramount. Asian marriage services offer a valuable solution, helping individuals bridge the gap and foster meaningful relationships. This article explores how these services can assist in overcoming language barriers, ensuring that love is not lost in translation. Read more
The sports betting market is expected to grow by over $135 billion from 2020-2025, driven by changes in the regulatory landscape and innovative tech trends. One of these tech trends that’s shaping this multi-billion-dollar market is the rise of sports betting apps and mobile sites. Sports betting apps directly impact the player’s overall experience, starting with basic functionalities like account creation to more advanced features like AI integration and virtual reality. Read more
Fishing at Lake Fork, located in Texas, requires understanding the seasonal patterns and adjusting your tactics to maximize your chances of a successful catch. Read more