Gratitude Portrait Series

The gratitude Portrait series is a project that aims to shine a bright light on the beauty that exists in recovery from alcohol and substance use. This is achieved by focusing on the gratitude that exists within those who are on the path of long-term recovery.

A portrait of gratitude starts with an initial interview. Based on the interview we focus on the most striking statements of hope and gratitude. We then conceptualize a creative portrait that is meant to symbolize or emulate their sentiments. From there we go out and make the vision come to life.

This is by far the most rewarding project of my career so far as it’s a subject that is near and dear to my heart, being a person in long-term recovery my self. The images you see here are proudly on display in a major detox facility offering hope and inspiration to those who are seeking a solution.

I aim to expand on the project as it’s one I think can bring great value to this world. If you are on the path of long-term recovery and think you would like to participate in the expansion of this project please contact me for more details.

Below you will find images of gratitude immediately followed by the quotes that fueled the creative vision.

“I am so grateful for my sobriety and my life today. Sometimes I can’t believe it’s real. I feel like I’m living in a dream.” – Alison V.

"Thank you. In my wildest dreams God, I would have never chosen this ministry, a ministry that is all-inclusive, accepts addiction as a disease and recognizes that we are all children of God. A ministry where I am blessed to be among the people rather than above them. It seems like you were pushing me, allowing my wounds to become my ministry's gifts. I couldn't have done it myself. The special people you placed in my life made this possible and for that, I am truly humbled and grateful." - Father Bill

“I feel like I was reborn after I got sober and had a second chance at life. I’m grateful for my body and it’s health. Now I get to push the envelope with that, moving my body through space in ways that help me let go of fear and feel more confident.” – Caroline H.

“I was this guy who had been in the hospital four times in one summer, declared legally dead because of alcohol poisoning three times, and pulled out of hotel rooms by my family. Today, I step back and realize, I’m that guy that’s super excited about my sobriety. The change is extraordinary.” – Bill M.

“Today, I am grateful to live as my true and authentic self every day. Before I got sober, I lived for everyone else. Everything looked perfect on the outside but inside I was miserable. When I got sober, I finally became a real person. Today I love my life because it’s mine, it’s real, it’s true and it’s honest.” – Cortney B.

“I feel so full of life. It’s amazing that every day I want to learn new things, take new risks and appreciate the little things that bring life joy and with that comes a desire to help people, to help the world.” – Brian G.

“I’m grateful that I want to really feel my feelings today, no matter what they are.” – Emma R.

“I anchored myself in humility and service to others. As a result, I gained new perspectives on the meaning of success. Early in recovery, I took a job stocking shelves at a grocery store. I was grateful to have my arms and my legs and a clear mind. Many of those who I served with were less fortunate. Over time, I became convinced that the things I had were more than enough and gratitude became my new measuring stick.” – David F.

“I am grateful that I can appreciate all the amazing things this world has to offer. Not just see them, but truly feel them in my heart.” – Brian Cattelle

“I am grateful to God for the opportunity to live my life the way it was intended. I was not meant to die early as I still have much to offer. I’m grateful that I can still be a part of my community and the greater society. Alcohol robbed me of that opportunity for over 22 years. I want to give back to the groups and the people in my society that embraced me and welcomed me back.” – Lee O.

“If I do the footwork God will do the rest. My sobriety has given me the opportunity to teach chess to our youth, a passion I once lost to alcoholism. There are many life lessons and skills taught through chess. I’m able to give back to my community, the rewards of which are beyond my wildest dreams, and for that, I am eternally grateful.” – Mike R.