The One Hundred Thousand Portrait Project is in Buffalo this week!

This public art project is traveling across America to reconnect the country in a more intimate way and better understand the various cultures within our diverse nation. They hope to photograph at least 2,500 Buffalonians at The Foundry (298 Northampton) through Sunday, July 12, and at the Pop-In (218 Grant) on Monday-Wednesday (July 13-15) before heading to the next American city.

Participants are asked to write a brief story - old or new, happy or sad, but mostly sincere and honest - that tells who they are. A minimum of two sentences is required, and it can be written on site - drop-ins are welcome. Every Project participant receives a free 4x6 digital high resolution copy of their image, and becomes one of many who share their story with the rest of the country.

According to the organizers, there are no restrictions. Just come as you are. A model release must be signed, and a legal guardian must sign a release for those who are 17 and under.

What a fascinating project. Max Anderson and Bertholt Schroeder of Buffalo told their stories. So did Veronica Michalek of Blasdell. Wouldn't it be fun to be part of this creative attempt to capture the stories that make our city, our region and our nation unique?