welcome to my first suicide.

this gallery collection of writings and photographs originally made its debut here at stephenh.org two years ago in march 2005. featuring 14 original photographs all taken in one session, walking down burnside street in the very early morning hours. the accompanying writings stemmed from a then-recent search to connect to portland and its history, researching stories of its past while still discovering its present by experiencing corners of the city i had yet to see.

at the time, i had been publishing new galleries of artwork here every month, and my first suicide quickly became the most popular of those, receiving more traffic by far, and even getting linked on blogs and web communities worldwide. right away, stories and comments started rolling in of portlanders past and present connecting with the story in strong and personal ways.

since then, the story has undergone some editing and minor transformation, but the original spirit has remained. for the may 2006 month-long gallery exhibition at the sequential art gallery & studio in portland's historic old town district, the writings were edited and in some places re-written, and the collection shrank from 14 photos down to 12. the opening at sequential art also marked the release of the chapbook version of the story, and the photo prints on display were showcased in hand-made frames i conceptualized and constructed myself. this version of the collection made a second appearance in august 2006 for a one-night showing at TOMfest in camas, washington. this exhibition also marked the release of the it EP, which became the soundtrack for the collection.

to me, the collection as a whole is a representation of what the city of portland means to me - its people, its history, its buildings and its culture. to others, i've heard that it represents a more spiritual connection to the city and its legends. for many, it transcends simple words and photographs and finds unique meaning for most everyone who experiences it.

i've been both flattered and humbled by the response to this gallery, being able to hear from people who have their own unique stories to tell about this city, and yet still make a very personal connection to mine. whatever your response to this story, i hope it at least entertains and engages you, and enhances your connection to and understanding of this great city - portland, oregon.

i also wish to encourage you to send me your reflections on the piece, as well as any stories or reflections on portland, its history, and what this town means to you. recognizing this city isn't for everyone, it still holds a place in the heart of many, and hopefully you are included in this group. to share your stories/reflections, send email to: mail [at] stephenh [dot] net.

i hope you enjoy your time here.
-stephen h
march 2007