Normally I would not suggest visiting a hospital unless absolutely necessary, especially during a pandemic, but in this case a trip to Doylestown Hospital would be a most memorable event! A couple of weeks ago I had to take my wife to the hospital for tests and ended up in the brand new cardiac wing (thankfully she is getting better!!!) and there before me on the walls were thirty nine incredible black and white photographs by Ed Eckstein that make up a permanent exhibit entitled Healing Images: A Doylestown Hospital Photo Essay.  I knew they were there, but had not gotten around to see them … a mistake now rectified!

Ed is a great photojournalist and documentary photographer who is also a member of the Monalog Collective. He also happens to be a great guy! It turns out that Ed was selected from over fifty photographers to document the many aspects of healing at the hospital, and the photographs chosen for the exhibit were drawn from over 4,000 images he made several nights a week during July and August 1997. Using his discreet Leicas and only available light, he became what he describes “a fly on the wall”, exploring the various public and restricted parts of the hospital looking for images to capture.

You never know where you will find wonderful photographs like Ed’s to see.  When looking for great photography where you live or when traveling, make sure to cast a wide net and don’t restrict yourself to galleries and museums. Do a little research and you might be surprised at the treasures you discover!

Another takeaway is the reaffirmation that subject matter sitting right in front of us that we often take for granted or completely overlook can yield powerful and emotional photographs. Openness to all that surrounds us can result real gems. As you’re out and about, be on the lookout for great images that fall outside your pre-conceived notions of what makes a good picture. Also think about projects focused on subject matter you might not normally consider important or photogenic. You might be surprised!   Looking at Ed’s wonderful photographs shows just how much opportunity there is to do great work if we’re open to the possibilities.

If you live in Bucks County, or are coming through Doylestown, check out this powerful and empathetic exhibit containing timeless images that really hit home!

Stay well,

Michael