A lovely project inspired by Patti Smith’s autobiography, Just Kids, by photographer and director Ryan Schude (previously featured here). Part of an ongoing series exploring the relationship between photography and literature, this collection of images chronicles the turning point in Patti Smith’s life which marked her transition from meandering New Jersey factory worker to aspiring New York City artist. As Schude explains:

“Patti writes a poignantly detailed account of boarding the bus that started it all. The moment I read this passage below, I knew it could make a compelling series of images, it was just a matter of where and when. Although my journey was not quite as dramatic, I distinctly recall leaving an interview for a corporate sales position at around the same age she was in this part of her story, and realizing I was never going to pursue that path, instead choosing to apply to art school. Patti really put it all on the line, I can’t imagine the courage it took her to show up in such an overwhelming city with no money, no job, and no place to stay. It was this same attitude that eventually came out in her music, after a few years of odd jobs and developing her voice through writing and illustration first.”

The series consists of tableaus of people on the bus as well as individual portraits. While Schude takes a literal approach to Smith’s story, the way Smith lived her life and the longevity of her career has clearly had a much broader impact on Schude’s work and life. Finding himself passing through middle age and struggling to keep working through the pandemic, Schude states: “Having seen Patti perform live a few years ago and continuing to be astounded at her ability to keep going all these years later is a constant inspiration to keep creating at times we feel stuck in our routines or pressured by external factors to find alternative paths in our work.” Check out more images following the passage that inspired the project below!