Ty Fischer is one of the finest Artists and portrait photographers I’ve ever known. And after 30 years of grinding in both the Fine and Commercial Art worlds, that’s saying something.
Ty's intuitive ability to capture a poignant moment with aesthetic skill and technical mastery puts him in rarified air… but his passion for story telling in general
and his unique gift for encouraging and assisting others to tell their stories… Is what I admire utmost. Ty’s worked in the inner city and exotic lands.
He’s worked with the powerful and the powerless. And he’s documented and exhibited, inspired and aspirational tales that leave you in awe.
Rod Hatfield | Creative | Entrepreneur | Business Owner
Hatch New Media, Hi-Hat Social, The State Theater
At the Springfield Museum of Art, we’ve had the privilege of hosting Can’t Hold Me Down, a powerful exhibition created by Ty Fischer. Ty, who developed the concept for this project, brought his deep passion for storytelling and community to life by working closely with students from Cliff Park High School. His "Your Story" approach allowed each student to share their personal journey of resilience, struggle, and growth, and Ty’s commitment to celebrating their stories is evident in every aspect of the exhibit.
The portraits themselves are much more than images; they represent the strength and perseverance of each student. Ty’s creative process, which combines photography, personal words, and interactive elements, gave these students a platform to tell their stories in a way that is both meaningful and empowering. His dedication to amplifying their voices through this innovative approach has created an exhibit that fosters empathy, connection, and understanding.
The response from both the students and visitors has been incredibly powerful. For the students, the opportunity to reflect on their experiences and see their stories transformed into art has been a source of pride and empowerment. Visitors, too, have been moved by the depth of the portraits and the personal narratives behind them. The exhibition has sparked important conversations, giving a deeper understanding of the challenges these students face, and reinforcing the transformative power of art and storytelling in connecting communities.
It has been an honor to partner with Ty on this project and provide a space for these students to share their voices and inspire others.
Jessimi Jones | Executive Director | Springfield Museum Of ArtSmithsonian Affiliate