Ethan Frazier
When Ethan Frazier of Westchester gets behind the camera, he wants to tell a story.
But how do you tell a message without words or a voice to carry it to the listener? No moving picture to convey expression or action. How much meaning can be portrayed in a still photograph, with only your eyes and imagination helping you find the answer?
That’s what Frazier set out to do when he photographed Triton College’s Crowns of Excellence exhibit, a photography showcase honoring the artistry, cultural pride and rich traditions of Black hairstyles.
The exhibit, which opened to the community Feb. 2 and will be on display through the end of February, is an institution-wide collaboration among the Triton College Library, Visual Communications and the Cosmetology and Barber programs. Featuring 20 photographs of Triton College students, alumni, staff and faculty proudly showcasing their hair, the exhibit celebrates the creativity, confidence and beauty that truly crown the Triton community.
All photos for the exhibit were taken by current and former students of the Visual Communications program, including Frazier, who took many of the photos on display. Frazier said he was proud to be part of the project and added that while capturing the likenesses of the participants, his focus was on conveying the confidence of the models and pride in their hair.
“I really wanted to do something that feels like I can make a big impact,” he said. “And being able to also help convey an identity that I’ve carried my entire life and to represent a community that I’ve been born into is really uplifting.”
Frazier added that it was important for him to relay in his photos how each model felt about their hair. Before each shoot, he would speak with the model and ask how they wanted to be represented. Using positioning, setting, lighting techniques and focus, Frazier captured each likeness, emphasizing confidence, self-love and beauty.
“I feel like pictures can tell a variety of different stories,” he said. “With this exhibit, my hope is that you’re able to look at each picture and get a sense of the personality of each model and you can be sure that this is the way they choose to wear their hair. It’s not anyone else’s hair; it’s theirs, and it fits.”
Watch this short video to hear more from Frazier on what “Crowns of Excellence” means to him.
Frazier, 20, is on track to graduate from Triton College in May with an associate degree in visual communications and graphic design. He plans to continue his education in the fall and pursue a bachelor’s degree at a four-year school.
When he first enrolled at Triton, Frazier’s priority was to “get in and get out,” degree in hand, but since starting, he’s learned to enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
“The more I’ve done photography at Triton, the more it’s really helped me integrate,” he said. “I’ve met so many wonderful people, and it’s allowed me to develop a sense of belonging.”
He’s found a home in the Visual Communications program especially, he adds. According to Frazier, the program sets itself apart primarily through its instructors, such as program chair Jill Lobianco-Bartalis, who actively participates in photography and graphic design, leading by example. Frazier said it’s inspiring to learn from and work alongside professionals in the field.
“When it comes to my education, I’ve always been very hesitant and nervous,” he said. “But Triton has really helped me find my footing by giving me a hands-on learning experience. That’s helped me feel more determined and able to understand where I am now and how I can plan for a successful future.”
Triton College’s Visual Communications degree allows students to tap into their creativity and work with practicing artist-educators to explore the artistic and technical components of graphic design, animation, digital video and digital photography.