The Lost Suitcases of the Willard Asylum photo series offers a rare glimpse into the lives of patients from a 19th century upstate New York psychiatric hospital. Packed with personal belongings ranging from letters to ornaments and photographs, they tell the intimate stories of those who were committed to this famous psychiatric hospital back in the late 1800s.
Captured by photographer Jon Crispin, The Lost Suitcases of the Willard Asylum photo series reveals the emotional baggage of 500 patients. Discovered when the 130-year-old institution was torn down, the relics of past lives will be exhibited at the Exploratorium in San Francisco, California. Despite his particular interest in abandoned asylums, Crispin has never stumbled upon a treasure trove of forgotten memories until now.
What's Driving This Trend
- Art as Therapy
- The use of art as therapy can create opportunities to explore and understand one's mental state and history.
- Historical Archiving
- Preserving artifacts from the past can provide valuable insight into historical events and individuals.
- Personal Storytelling
- Sharing personal experiences can help to break down stigmas and create connections with others.
Who This Affects Most
- Mental Health
- Innovations in mental healthcare can incorporate creative outlets for patients to explore their emotions and experiences.
- Museum Curation
- Curating exhibits that showcase personal artifacts can provide valuable historical and social commentary.
- Photography
- Photography can capture and share personal stories that may otherwise be forgotten or untold.
