Bruce Giffin and Anne Fracassa

Memory and Legacy

Nov 28, 2024

“Bruce Giffin describes himself as painfully and agonizingly self taught, stating that photography has become the air that he breathes. He makes his living as a photographer and after hours he shoots pictures for his heart. He has been shooting photos in the city of Detroit for nearly 30 years, and he enjoys it more every second and says that the digital revolution allows him to produce the best quality images of his life.” -2011 Kresge Fellowship Profile

Giffin made a name on portraits of Detroit residents, mostly homeless, who had been left behind, easily dismissed and overlooked. He elevated their faces, their stories, their humanity to consequence and distinction. Michael’s green eyes sparkled so brightly they couldn’t be ignored.

Before the public took any interest, Giffin explored derelict sites like the Packard Plant and the Train Station, when it was colloquially referred to as the Heroin Hotel, always with his stalwart companion, Henry, by his side. Nothing like a big black dog to keep you safe. Detroit’s younger angels embraced Henry who loved them right back.

Giffin’s other love were Detroit’s iconic cars. He logged hundreds of images of old school whips that once gleamed with pride then sadly became emblematic of the city’s collapse.

"One of my earliest memories occurred when I was 3-4 years old. I was playing in a patch of sunlight on the floor of our dining room. My mother gave me a grocery bag and a pencil. The marks I made on that brown paper took my breath away. Ever since, when I draw I am trying to wake that child." -Anne Fracassa

Anne Fracassa from her Facebook page possibly oil stick and oil pastel

Fracassa was one of the Pioneer Building’s studio artists, which was initially occupied predominantly by women, many of whom only began their creative journey when their kids were grown and out of the house. She, and several others, achieved notoriety for their work while nurturing the next generation of makers. The Pioneer Building now boasts some of Detroit’s most prolific and talented artists.

Anne Fracassa with her work, image from Facebook

If you were lucky enough to spend any time with Bruce or Anne you were infused with enthusiasm for our Detroit art family. It really is a family. There’s friendly competition while looking out for each other, celebrating victories and grieving when one of us leaves this realm for another.

Bruce Giffin is currently in memory care. I understand the facility has appointed him their official photographer so his legacy of capturing souls often forgotten continues. Anne’s health began to deteriorate a few years ago. She’s on the other side now, reunited with those that have gone before. Much love and godspeed.

*Bruce’s images are my image of his image

direct quote from webpage

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