UPP

Ben DeSoto's Understanding Poverty Project
On View at Diverse Works September 2008

March 12, 2008

An important story began in 2007 as organizations continue to meet the needs of the most helpless in the Houston area. For those who are directly involved in the implementation of the Blue Ribbon Commission Report on Homelessness, this coming year will be especially demanding.
We, a small but growing group of artists, are gathering support and funding for a project that will document the work of the Blue Ribbon Commission as well as foster greater understanding among Houstonians about their homeless and impoverished fellow city dwellers.
Called “Understanding Poverty,” the project will produce a book, a formal exhibition, and a documentary movie. We already have a commitment from DiverseWorks Artspace to exhibit in 2008.
As we apply for grants, we are asking participating organizations for support through invitations to visit facilities, programs, staff, volunteers and clients willing to share their stories to further a deeper understanding of poverty.
My career as a photojournalist has enabled me to focus on pivotal activity in social justice issues, especially the plight and conditions of the working poor and homeless.
We believe the work to implement the report’s 10 year plan is an important story worth coverage.
A central part of the proposed book would be documentary essays of two people struggle with chronic homelessness over the span of almost two decades.
At the heart of the matter, we want to document the job of caring about and caring for those unable to care for themselves.
View the work under the Portfolio tab Understanding Poverty Project Folio and enter the galleries Ben White; Judy Pruitt; Institutions and Streets.