From the very beginning we knew this project wouldn't be easy. Photographers, like all artists, are driven by two things, passion and ego. It was vital that we tap into both in order to reach our goal of "The Journey: The Next 100 Years".

I remember at our first open meeting, there were about fifteen photographers there, most of whom I knew. Some of them knew each other as well, but most knew a name but not a face. Immediately, a camaraderie came upon these photographers.
They were often in awe of each others work, complimenting shots they'd seen in past publications or in exhibitions. Right away I knew the "Journey" had begun. When we reached our deadline for submitted film, just over 60 photographer's had contributed to the project.

The members that helped to set up the MCA exhibit, stand on the front steps of the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago.

Besides working with Milbert Brown on the development of the project, I also found myself acting as the organization's "motivational speaker". Keeping a photographer focused in a year long project isn't as easy as it seems. Many of our members are working staff photographers and freelance photographers with clients. We didn't spend a lot of time telling members what to shoot or even how to shoot. I think the majority of our time was just telling them, "Shoot!"

Each month the photographer's were bringing in phenomenal work. From poverty, to politics, to parties, to performances. The goal of this project became more focused and defined.

Photographers of the "Journey" pose outside the South Side Community Art Center

In the end, over 3,500 images were turned over to Pulitzer Prize winning photographers, Ovie Carter and John H. White who began the editing process, selecting the best images to be displayed for exhibition.

In late January of 2001 we began the process of dividing over 180 gallery prints into two separate and distinct exhibitions to be shown at two venues, the South Side Community Arts Center and Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago.