About the Project
The century plant, found in the southwest and Mexico, grows for up to 30 years and, at the end of its life, presents one giant blossom. This project feels a bit like that. It started as the seed of an idea, planted in the mind of a young photographer looking for projects. It took on a life of its own, a simple process which didn’t really need a lot of thought.
Go to the reunion and take pictures just like the last time, get on with life. What enabled this idea to survive was a judicious stylistic choice that I could live with for a very long time and the patience and good humor of my classmates. Here we are, at the end of its life, finally producing that single blossom.
Wrestling this idea to the ground has been a journey for me as well. I have bounced around, one moment confident, the next skeptical, and, finally, amazed. I am amazed at how hard everyone worked, how well you loved, how you adapted to a torrent of change, how much goodness you all brought to your lives and to the world. You are an impressive group of human beings, and that is what has made this project so rewarding.
The Photographer
John Earle moves seamlessly from the boardroom to the factory floor, from raw documentary to burnished advertising; all this in the service of his personal work that keeps him inspired and curious. John loves the process of discovery that every project offers. He also loves a good production.
John has the experience to know that great pictures exist in the space between planning and spontaneity; between craft and inspiration. The underlying character of his work is authentic, warm and dignified. He brings an affability and curiosity to projects that engages and relaxes both his subjects and his clients.
