In an era where local news outlets are rapidly disappearing, veteran photojournalist Richard Sitler has initiated a unique project in Knightstown, Indiana. Dubbing himself the 'Photographer IN Residence,' Sitler is committed to capturing the essence of small-town life, providing a visual and narrative record for a community that once relied on its local newspaper. This endeavor seeks to not only preserve the stories of Knightstown but also to potentially serve as a blueprint for other towns facing similar challenges in media coverage.
Knightstown, a quaint town known for its iconic 'Hoosier Gym,' featured in the 1986 film 'Hoosiers,' holds a special place in Sitler's heart. It's his hometown, and he keenly feels the absence of local reporting since The Banner, the town's newspaper, ceased publication in 2018. This closure mirrors a broader national trend where millions of Americans have limited or no access to reliable local news. Sitler's 'Photographer IN Residence' initiative is a direct response to this void, aiming to maintain a connection between the community and its daily events through the lens of a dedicated photojournalist.
Sitler's approach involves regular posts of photographs and stories on his dedicated Facebook page, sharing insights into local happenings. His focus is on the quieter, authentic moments of everyday people, steering clear of sensationalism. The engagement metrics for his page are impressive, significantly exceeding Knightstown's population, demonstrating a clear appetite for localized content. This strong community response is central to Sitler's vision, as he hopes to leverage it to attract sponsorships, grants, and partnerships, proving the viability of his model.
The inspiration for Sitler's work draws heavily from historical documentary photography, particularly the Farm Security Administration's efforts during the Great Depression. He is also influenced by contemporary projects like Brian Moss's 'Life in Corydon.' These influences underscore his belief in the power of sustained, focused photographic documentation to create a lasting narrative. He aims to meticulously chronicle significant events and the subtle rhythms of life in Knightstown, ensuring that no moment, however small, goes unrecorded.
Beyond documenting the present, Sitler's project has a future-oriented goal. If successful in securing funding for a year-long residency, he plans to mentor a younger photojournalist to continue his work in Knightstown. Concurrently, he envisions expanding this residency concept to other small towns, creating a network of 'Photographers IN Residence' who can rejuvenate local storytelling across the country. This ambitious plan, though challenging, echoes the spirit of overcoming long odds, much like the underdog basketball team celebrated in 'Hoosiers.'
Ultimately, Sitler's mission is to combat the societal amnesia that can arise when local stories go untold. By capturing moments like a child sledding down Sunset Park, a high school basketball game, or the dedicated work of local firefighters, he ensures that the lives and experiences of Knightstown's residents are seen and remembered. His initiative serves as a poignant reminder that every community, regardless of its size, deserves a chronicler of its history and its heart, transforming what might otherwise become forgotten memories into tangible legacies.