47 PICS

Document the True Culture of Appalachia

There are many various misconceptions about the way people of Appalachia live, particularly in the Mid-Atlantic Region. I would like to document what life is really like for them, not as an outsider looking in but from their point of view.

I grew up in an Appalachian town in West Virginia, and when I left to go to college had to fight everyones prejudices about what people who live in appalachia are really like. Since that time it has been my dream to document what life is truly like for those of us who live(d) in Appalachia.
While I would like to be able to say that the stereo types that are portrayed of appalachians are never accurate, the sad truth is that occasionally they are, and this documentary wouldn't be to gloss over that fact, nor to emphasize that fact, but rather it would record this and juxtapose it with the way the rest of the people who live in appalachia are truly like. Essentially this documentary would cover the way of life for everyone from the Bankers and Movie/Music stars who live there to the loggers, factory workers, coal miners and everyone in between.
Ultimately I would like to take this collection of photographs and stories to create an exhibit that would help to break down those stereo types I have fought and continue to fight by showing the truly diverse cultures of the appalachian region.

Rank: 181

26 Comments

edbodnar

I truly believe that this is a much needed story. The people of Appalachia deserve to have their story told, not as a pitty party for them, but as a story of strength, resilience and determination.

rockstar89

You got my vote Bodner. Sounds like a really neat project and if I remember correctly, you always were a good photographer. Good luck!

teri1226

Eddie, good luck. You know you have my vote. Teri

June

Good luck--you have my vote also. June

jewelljs

Great idea. You have my vote and good luck. Samantha

jwilsonhhs

Ed, this is a great idea. Good Luck. You have my vote.

Murf

Ed,
I've been wishing someone would tackle something like this.
I've been reading some very negative remarks about my home state.
(Newsweek is one.)
Best wishes. You certainly have my vote.
Gary

sgbtlr

This is an awesome idea Ed! Best of luck to you on this effort. Steve B.

stegerra

You got my vote. Go Ed Go!!!! It is all about marketing.
Randy Steger

oxanah

Make it happen, Ed! Good luck to you!
=Oxana=

larrybodnar

I appreciate the votes of confidence from everyone so far. It seems I have a ways to go but with word of mouth "marketing" I'm hoping that enough people will pic my idea to help me tell this story. Again thanks to everyone for voting.
Ed

DKelso

Show your photographic talent, Ed!

CrazyJan

Eddie: Have known your mom since she was born. Your idea is great and you have my support. Anxious to see more pictures. Jan Poling

tlc

Eddie: Good luck. Your sis.

kjherndon

Way to go Ed! Blessings- Kelsey

FatherJohn

I like your idea!

I voted for you; will you vote for me? Let's do this and see how it turns out. Let's help each other!

Good luck!

Aschwalb23

Good Luck, Ed

khutchison

Wonderful and very educational too! Good luck!

Amazonian

Good ideas like yours that are not in the Top 100 are nearly impossible to find. This is unfair as many great ideas are hidden. Those of us in the “Sub-100” should work together to promote the best projects of the Sub-100 so that they can be in the Top 100 and be seen. Please vote for best Sub-100s!

bsasso

I love this idea! check out mine and Pic it if youd like! Congo here I come...

WisePoney

i don't know much about Appalachia
certainly you could give me insider view.
voted !
please see mine!

jrhandel

I can't wait to see your photos - Wonderful idea & great dream! Best of luck and you have my "PIC" - please check out my dream of furthering peaceful coexistence between Jews and Arabs in the Middle East. Thanks!!

willbaxter

Wow, this is the 2nd Appalacia project I've seen. I'm voting for you -- feel free to return the favor and vote for my project on land seizures, political upheaval and the overall struggles of daily life in Zimbabwe.

adamjames

You have my vote, If you get the chance, check out my dream "From Australia With Love" and PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE vote for it!

Thanks.

-Adam

jwcarter

Ed,

I have seen some of your work that Whitley has brought to work. You are a good photographer, you have my vote, and good luck!

Jason

MKBrock125

Really inspiring idea! Hope you check mine out.