Aaron Hardin: The States Project: Tennessee

Aaron Hardin: The States Project: Tennessee by Jerry AtnipJuly 30, 2016

©Aaron Hardin

Aaron Hardin is the only photographer featured this week that I don’t know personally. However, spending time with his images gives other viewers and me the sense that he and his family are somehow familiar to us all. The pictures portray emotions and a sense of storytelling that provides us the feeling that we know more than we think we do. It’s a bit like being reacquainted every ten years or so with a cousin at a family reunion.

It’s a monumental time in Aaron’s life. Earlier this month, he was awarded the Fine Art prize in the Magnum Photography Awards. Next week, he finishes his MFA in Photography in the Hartford Art School International Limited-Residency program. He’s looking at options for publishing a book for The 13th Spring, which is featured here. I look forward to seeing what’s next for this talented artist.

Aaron Hardin is an independent photographer and teacher based out of Jackson, Tennessee. Hardin was born in the rice fields of central Arkansas but migrated to West Tennessee as a child. His work focuses on life his rural southern community. Hardin is currently a graduate student in the Hartford Art School International Limited-Residency MFA in Photography program.

The 13th Spring

My daughter was born on the thirteenth spring. Her cries were met by the deafening surge of the cicadas’ song. I wondered if she would be marred by the world like her father and her father’s father. The next time the cicadas spring from the ground, she’ll be a teenager and I’ll be her graying father. Maybe this time will be different.