This project is the result of years of collaboration between Linda Johnson and Hinda Schuman. The original question: how do two photographers experience the same moment, and how does that moment differ in the images they produce?
The investigation began when we decided, in August of 2000, to do a county-by-county exploration of the state of Pennyslvania. To honor these many locales and experiences, we have created diptychs — carefully edited images paired to reprise the photographic moment. Each diptych is the product of careful editing and collaboration. Images on the left of each diptych are by Hinda Schuman. On the right, images by Linda Johnson. Taken together, the gestalt.
Pennsylvania is a diverse state, one with a long agrarian tradition and one made wealthy by industry. Politically, it is resolutely purple, turning sometimes Republican or Democratic throughout its history. Pennsylvania is home to singular technological innovations and game-changing medical advances. It is also home to a greying population: around 18% of its citizens are over the age of 65. All of these factors came together to challenge us as photographers and engage us as humans.
While this is not an exhaustive reflection of life in the state, we have documented life in 46 of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties. We will not be able to visit the remaining counties. But we hope you enjoy the ride.