art + objets d'arts + photography

Bill Bytsura (NYC, USA). Silver Gelatin Photograph (printed in darkroom), Signed on back, ‘For Guy 7/17/93. Bill Bystura, 1991’. 8 x 10 inches. Photograph taken in 1980’s for The Aids Activist Project.

USD$400.

BIO:

Bill Bytsura is an accomplished photographer widely recognized for his dynamic and evocative images. With a base in both New York City and Panama, his work has garnered acclaim and been exhibited in galleries throughout the United States and Central America.

Bytsura possesses a remarkable talent for capturing the essence of his subjects, revealing their humanity and unique personalities through his expertly composed photographs. His portfolio encompasses a diverse range of subjects, including captivating street scenes, breathtaking landscapes, intimate portraits, and thought-provoking social issues.

While Bytsura’s commercial work has garnered significant attention, his dedication extends beyond the realm of photography. He has channeled his talent toward various humanitarian causes, displaying an unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. Notably, he actively advocates for turtle conservation, utilizing his photography to document the efforts of scientists and volunteers in protecting sea turtle populations in Central America.

Moreover, Bytsura has captured the vibrant energy and spirit of the annual Panama Jazz Festival, translating the essence of this musical celebration into captivating visual narratives. Additionally, his involvement as a dedicated AIDS activist showcases his compassionate nature and commitment to raising awareness. Collaborating with organizations such as ACT UP and GMHC, he has documented the AIDS crisis in New York City during the 1980s and 1990s, contributing to a deeper understanding of the disease through his powerful and poignant photographs.

Bill Bytsura’s body of work stands as a testament to the profound impact photography can have in inspiring empathy, communicating complex issues, and fostering positive change. His unwavering dedication to his craft, coupled with his heartfelt commitment to humanitarian causes, firmly establishes him as a true luminary in the field of photography.

The AIDS activist project includes 62 powerful and stunning black and white portraits of AIDS activists taken during the years 1989 through 1998. It is inspired by the work of photographers like Dorothea Lange and her portrait “Migrant Mother.” Roman Vishniac’s  “A Vanished World”, the portraits of Yousuf Karsh as well as Richard Avedon and Diane Arbus.

Capturing the emotions, the personality of the subjects in this book was the ultimate goal. There is no need for props, make up or styling. The people photographed in this book took to the streets and used direct action to call attention to the AIDS crisis. These are the people who took it upon themselves to fight back, fight against bigotry hatred and ignorance. These are the people that fought for a cure to end one of the deadliest epidemics in history. They fought for infected or affected by AIDS, they fought for their friends, they fought for their lives.

This project and the book were a long time in the making, over 30 years. In the AIDS activist project, I share my experience and the people I met along the way.
 In the book you will get to know the people, the activists, who fought and made a difference in the book, Anne, Moises, Tom, Kate, Floyd, Mona, Tigger, and so may other amazing activists.

the AIDS activist project remembers and honors the people who fought and changed the course of the AIDS crisis. The desperation felt in the ’80’s created the in-your-face activism and brought us where we are today. AIDS activism changed things for the generations that have come since, who didn’t have to live through the nightmare of the AIDS Crisis.

It’s been over 50 years since the Stonewall Riots, 49 years since the first Pride March, 38 years since the first AIDS cases were reported, and 32 years since ACT UP began.

That’s a lot of history. We fought hard and made tremendous progress in LGBTQ Rights and the fight against AIDS.
Some people in the book are no longer with us, but their activism and spirit paved the way and lives on today. This book is a beautiful and moving tribute to all the people who we lost to AIDS and to those who continue the fight today. History will remember this activism, and we will remember the ones we lost to AIDS.