(EX)POSED

(EX)POSED is a dramatic short film inspired by an artist’s response to one of the deadliest fire epidemics America has ever seen. What started as a genuine act of service to photograph and honor the devastation of loved ones turns into a gripping testimony of resilience. Full of raw and vulnerable expressions of cinematic artistry, the film invites you into the life of a photographer and her journey to capture their collective rise from the ashes. The film’s action campaign brings awareness to fire preparedness and prevention while providing tangible ways to be involved in Northern California’s ongoing efforts to rebuild.

Director: Austin Blasingame
Producer: Caroline McGraw
Photographer: Laura Schneider
Writer: Will Berry

White Pearl Productions website: https://www.whitepearlproductions.com/

Where it all began…

On Sunday, October 8, 2017, during severe red-flag warning conditions, a series of wildfires broke out across Sonoma and Napa counties, ultimately burning over 160,000 acres, claiming 31 lives, and destroying over 7,800 structures before being fully extinguished on October 31st.

It was a devastating blow to our community.

As the dust settled, and the acute needs were less pronounced, I began photographing friends, and friends of friends in the fire zone where their homes used to be with the hope that it would give them a place to start the rebuilding process.

And so I went and met each family, photographing them on black and white film only, with the intention of coming back a year later to photograph them all again, this time in color, as a tribute to how far they’ve come. At the time, my intention for the work was to keep it entirely private, but after seeing the body of work and being encouraged to share these stories, I knew they had to be told.

When I look at these portraits and talk with each family as they move forward, I am reminded so clearly of Kintsugi, a Japanese art from where broken ceramics are mended by gold. The belief is that the object is more beautiful for having been broken. Stronger too. And that the cracks are a tribute to it’s history. 

This project is my way of attempting to put gold in the cracks of our community and to honor these families and their unwavering resolve to mend their lives. 

I have been trusted by every person I photographed, to be the keeper of their stories. As that keeper, and as someone who hopes to preserve this unique piece of history in a beautiful way, I am asking you for your help in keeping them alive. So that we can all remember, who we are, why we’re here, and that we are all stronger in our broken places.