With our sixth photo harvest coming up, it’s amazing to
think how far we’ve already come, and only a tad daunting to think how far we
still need to go! Krista Brinkmeyer (aka KB), local artist and Starfire U
member, and her passion for photography led to this project almost 4 months
ago. At that time, we had no clue how much this idea would develop and the
level of support we would get.
The first official meeting for the project happened at ZZ’s Pizza
in Walnut Hills, just minutes from DIY Printing. KB had been working together
with Aaron Kent, owner of DIY, on learning the basics of screen printing. It
was there, over a huge pie filled with tomatoes and cheese, that KB, Aaron, and
Cedric Cox, also a local artist, hashed out the original plans for what was to
become Cincy Story Mural.
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| Oakley and Madisonville residents gather for the first photo harvest |
KB brought their plans to the Public Allies in the form of a
Prezi presentation, and also sat down with Randy Weeks of Cincy.com in a
meeting of the minds. In a matter of weeks, the project grew from 3 people to a
16 all-volunteer crew.
Because of this collaboration, KB is glad she can move away
from the details and nitty gritty and get back to what she really loves: taking
pictures and doing interviews with local people.
“This is my last year at Starfire U.” Krista explains. “We
need more pictures, I need to get this done.”
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| People of Price Hill share their stories with the team |
At this point in our progress, we have found out that the locals are
the true backbone of this project. The residents of Cincinnati who submit their stories, photos,
and show us support by coming out for the photo harvests are the number one
contributors to the beauty of the mural.
You can become a supporter too by simply sharing your
pictures of around your neighborhood and Cincinnati, and telling your story at
the next photo harvest nearest you!
Our next harvest is tomorrow at the College Hill Coffee Co. from 4-6pm. Hope to see you there!
