Stephen Gabris “Four Years, One Hundred and Eighty Portraits” (2022)

Four Years, One Hundred and Eighty Portraits

By Stephen Gabris

“My name is Stephen Gabris and I have been assigned to your segment. I would like to make arrangements to take your photograph at your convenience.”

My very 1st assignment for Buffalo Spree Magazine was Alethea’s Tuesday, December 5, 2017. I was nervous. I brought a friend and referral, Deborah Clark. She was my unofficial food stylist, and there for moral support. I have since photographed doctors for Mercy Flight, chefs, and Atticus Finch!

Four years and one hundred and eighty portraits. I curated this show to remember the beautiful people I have met over those years, and to thank the team that make that possible.

The diligent, talented, and prideful Spree employees!

Every month I go out into the wild and meet total strangers. Sometimes in their home, sometimes on a farm, in a doctors office, a loading dock, or a restaurant. And every month I am blown away by what I didn’t know about Buffalo. Some hidden gem, program, building, eatery, or shop.

My editor Elizabeth Licata, is an incredible person in her own right. An author, a horticulturist, a proud Buffalonian, a force. Elizabeth has supported me along this journey, humored me, and keeps me in line. I am indebted to her.

I have met virtuoso artists like Bruce Adams, who are no longer with us. He taught me to be kind, talk with others, and look at everything.

I have been able to work alongside a mentor, and a hero, KC Kratt.

What an amazing thing. Every month to go out into the world, meet otherwise total strangers, get to know them a little, and take their portrait. I am in awe. Alright, get over it, channel it, and focus!

I look forward to the next 4 years, who knows what lie ahead!

If you were a subject, your images will be available at the end of the show. I can email you a link, and the print will be available for pick up. I would ask for a $50 donation for same to CEPA, however it is not a requirement for your likeness being included in the show.

Make a donation to receive a print of your image!