October 1 – October 31, 2009
Upper Gallery
During the month of October 2009, the Morris Museum will present The Faces of Breast Cancer, an inspiring exhibition of photographs by Pete Byron. This exhibition incorporates powerful images of breast cancer survivors with their stories of courage. In conjunction with the exhibition, the museum will offer an opening reception on September 30, 2009, and several educational programs throughout October, in collaboration with The Carol G. Simon Cancer Center at Morristown Memorial Hospital. 
Jane Hildabrant , Photograph by Pete Byron
Artist’s Statement
Pete Byron is a New Jersey-based photographer and Morris Plains resident. Speaking about the photographs in this exhibition, he said, “All through my career I have tried to pick relevant topics and approach them visually. When my neighbor Gretchen announced she had breast cancer, and was going to have a double mastectomy, I listened to the ease with which she talked about the experience, and the positive energy she showed and thought, ‘This is an important project. How do women react to a life-altering disease like this?’ She welcomed the project, and introduced me to women in her support group.”
Gretchen’s open and positive approach to this frightening illness inspired Mr. Byron to capture her victorious spirit photographically and share it with others. The exhibition celebrates the stories of Gretchen and women in her support group, to raise awareness of the inner strength and resilience that enable women with breast cancer to survive and thrive.
About the Artist
Pete Byron is a New Jersey-based freelance photographer whose work is highly regarded for his ability to balance energy, repose and compassion. Mr. Byron has thirty years of experience, including work as a newspaper photographer and with corporations, universities and other organizations throughout New Jersey. Mr. Byron has been honored with national awards, and his work has been exhibited at Drew University, Delbarton School and the Terrain Gallery in New York. |
