patty

PATTY

November 28, 1934 - February 13, 2006

________________

 

Dear Patty,

When I was a teenager, just beginning to explore photography, I made a couple of images of your hands. We were alone in the front yard. You had a lit cigarette between your fingers.

Ten years later you were diagnosed with lung cancer.

In that time we never talked much and I didn't make any other photographs of you. Our relationship was strained. Being my father's mother you were central to my family and at the same time you were rarely seen, trusted or enjoyed. This began to change when you stopped drinking.

You chose not to chase your cancer with chemotherapy or radiation. You lived months longer than they predicted. We took care of you. I photographed your hands through the rest of your life.

These diptychs represent our discordant yet intimate relationship.

With love, Kate

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