Portrait of a City was inspired by the photographer Evelyn Hofer, and her exhibition, Eyes on the City, that was on view at the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art from, September 16, 2023 – February 11, 2024. This collaborative project between the museum, Kansas City Society for Contemporary Photography and 49 local photographers aimed to bring together a diverse group of photographers to create a unique and compelling series of photographs. Drawing from Hofer’s approach to capturing everyday life and the beauty in simplicity, we sought to explore a range of subject matters, cultures, and perspectives. In addition to paying homage to Evelyn Hofer’s photographic legacy while creating a diverse collection of photographs that reflect the individuality and collective spirit of our talented group of photographers.

The willingness of these subjects to be photographed, all of whom have touched my life and help make the city a better place, has solidified my resolve to keep making images of the people and places around me. This project has inspired me to continue capturing images of the city I live in.