The Old Fire House: Documenting a Legacy in Redmond
The Old Firehouse Teen Center in Redmond that will be replaced for the new space.
I recently spent the day in Redmond documenting a significant moment for the community: the Legacy Celebration for the Old Fire House (OFH) Teen Center. The City hired me to capture the day as they prepare to transition the site for the new Teen Center Project.
For over 30 years, this building has been a hub for young musicians and a second home for a lot of people. The energy was a mix of a celebration and a nostalgic farewell.
The day was packed with live music from bands like Tomo Nakayama, Fight Milk, and Suzallo. I also captured speeches from the Mayor, city council members, and the staff and founders who started this place back in the 90s.
Hearing the founders talk while standing in the space they built was a powerful reminder of why I love creating emotional photostories. There was so much pride and history in that room.
My approach is always documentary-first. While most of the event was a celebration, there was also a peaceful protest happening outside. Many people are understandably upset that the center will be closed for two years during construction.
I didn't want to skip over the protesters and their signs. To me, that tension is part of the story. It shows just how much the Old Fire House has meant to people. You don’t protest something unless you care deeply about it.
In my work, I strive to bring a fun, calming presence to events with many moving parts.