Michael Wilson: They Knew Not My Name, and I knew Not Their Faces [FotoFocus Biennial]

They Knew Not My Name, and I Knew Not Their Faces is a series of black-and-white photographic portraits by Michael Wilson made across a wide cross-section of Cincinnati neighborhoods. The photographs were made in a portable studio, eliminating reference to place and simplifying the visual elements of the picture to the subject’s face, clothing, and gesture. The portable studio was set up in neighborhoods across Cincinnati and Hamilton County, in most cases outside of various branches of the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County. The series began in the neighborhood of Price Hill, where Wilson lives, in the summer of 2016 and throughout the spring and summer of 2018. The portrait sessions were unannounced and unscheduled to ensure an un-choreographed quality to the encounters. Participation was voluntary. Those who agreed to be photographed received a courtesy print in exchange for their participation.

They Knew Not My Name, and I Knew Not Their Faces is on view at the Main Library with smaller satellite exhibits at branch libraries where those particular portraits were made. A book accompanies the exhibition with supporting text by acclaimed writer RJ Smith.

Satellite Exhibits at these Branch Libraries:

1. College Hill
2. Forest Park
3. Green Township
4. Greenhills
5. Groesbeck
6. Harrison
7. Mariemont
8. Norwood
9. Reading
10. Walnut Hills