Seen and Heard: Teenagers Talk About Their Lives 

"From the sound bites on the six o’clock news or the stories in the weekly magazines, it’s easy to conclude that the next generation is in a downward spiral -- more prone to violence and suicidal depression, less ambitious and socially conscious. But what about the 'non-news' kids who do their homework, struggle to get along with their families and friends, and tackle the important business of growing up? Seen and Heard is a forum where these young people can speak freely about the issues that are most important to them: family, friends, school, work, and their hopes and fears for the future.  As a documentary photographer, my intention is to look directly at some part of our common human existence (such as marriage, childbirth, or motherhood) and reflect back my findings through books of portraits and interviews. The writer James Agee describes this kind of documentary work as an examination of 'the cruel radiance of what is,' rather than the fantasy of what we think should be. This distinction has been my guide. I invite you to set aside expectations and observe the faces and hear the voices of these young human beings as they share the truth about their lives."  From the introduction by author/photographer Mary Motley Kalergis.

Visitors since October 15, 1998.