‘I am Here’ follows the history and life of Jim.

Jim is a 76-year-old man who lives in a bungalow opposite my garden. We found a friendship conversing through the gap in our connecting fence that is covered in trees. We stood at the gap for hours at a time, I am glad we did.

He talked about his life, his favorite songs, his tomatoes, snooker, family, friends, work, and every time I listened. I listened because everything he said I needed to hear. And he talked because he needed to.

The project is a scrapbook of a glimpse into his life and what makes Jim, Jim.

It is a book for anyone, who like me, needs someone like Jim in their life. A figure who no matter what will be there to guide you.

The book uses archival photographs, written word, art, and contemporary photographs to create a nostalgic and homely feel for anyone who views it. They are made to feel welcome and part of the family, they can laugh along with the stories and pictures, they can empathies with the struggles of life, they can learn and take away whatever it is they needed.

I hope for my project to give the viewer a sense of inspiration and hope within their lives that no matter what happens, as long as you remain pure hearted, thankful, and kind you will ultimately be blessed with the gift of happiness, as nothing is set in stone.