Michael Powers: Memories

Caitlin © Michael Powers

Caitlin and I had to balance across the beams to reach the abandoned trunks. We almost fell through the insulation; luckily, we made the journey safely to the other side. It was October or November. It should have been cold in the attic but it was at least 85 degrees. I still can’t believe she stayed still for one second. Do you know how long a second is for a photographer? I thought this photograph was going to be an awful, blurry, under exposed image. Brian Fitzgibbons later commented about the image, “It looks very cinematic almost like it could be a film still.” The rest is history.

I was 15 years old when my Grandfather died. I wish I had spent more time with him and asked him more questions. He was a Doctor that enjoyed oil painting. I like to think that he if he saw my photographs of their Cape Cod home he would show me his crooked smile and give me that hug I don’t remember getting from him. I remember the glass bowl of Bulls-Eye candies on the kitchen cabinet. I liked that he knew I was always looking forward to them.

Grandma Dresser © Michael Powers

Madeline © Michael Powers

 This is the first time I met Madeline. She is the daughter of my cousin. I haven’t seen her in a few years. Her brother Harry and she were shy upon meeting me. Madeline saw my large camera and wanted to know what it did. I told her, “Stand still and I will show you.” 

Daydream © Michael Powers

  In my self-portrait I’m holding a silver boat in the bathtub. I also have a mustache to look more like my Father. This one is entitled, “daydream” because I tend to get lost in my imagination (something I did as a child playing in the tub and something I will continue to do forever). 

Telephone © Michael Powers

 It was my first time I went to Lake Sunapee. I’ve only been there three times but I know it’s one of the most magical places I will ever visit. Inside is preserved like a time capsule from the eighties.  I remember not knowing what was upstairs and to my delight I found an old telephone still being used.  I hope that one day I can go back to this wonderful place.