It’s not often that you can get 1,000 plus people to participate in anything…much less an art project.  Somehow, this man was able to do just that.  And I am so incredibly proud of him.

Back in March 2014, Bennett took some photos for a friend.  One of those shots stood out above the rest and it sparked a city-wide frenzy in Wheeling.  Everyone wanted to meet my husband in the alley, to get their golden shot in the space between the Professional Building and the Victoria Theatre on Market Street in downtown Wheeling.  In case you’re interested in seeing the series, head HERE to check them out!!

It’s one of the wildest rides we’ve been on so far.  Worth it.

Last night was the FINAL night for Bennett to offer individual portraits for this project.  It was a night that did not disappoint.  We had adorable kids, a cat, several dogs, a horse, and tons of beautiful people from our city come down to get their shot into the series.

We were also blessed with the musical stylings of Mr. Fancy Pants, who gave us an awesome street performance while alley photos were being taken.

WTRF had a cameraman with us, getting us some more press on Bennett’s project.  I’m beginning to wonder if the world is tired of hearing about McKinleys in the news.  Maybe?  Just a little bit?

It is incredible how much we have gained from giving free portraits to anyone who wanted one.  Seriously.  We’ve made so many new friends and have learned so much about our city and the people within it.  And we’ve also been able to take a passion of ours and put it out there for everyone to see.  It’s the ultimate goal of every artist to be seen…to make things that you love and put it out there for others to appreciate.

We couldn’t have done it without the undying support of our family, friends and the great city of Wheeling.  Thank you all so, so much for getting behind everything we’ve done so far.

There is still one more day worth of Meet Me in the Alley goodness, in case you wanted to hold on a little longer!  Bennett is organizing an event (Sunday, November 4) where we will be filling the alley with as many people as possible and getting one giant group photo.  The event info is HERE if you’d like to join!!

It’s sad to see it go, but I do believe it was time.  We’ve put so much time into this project and it’s been great…but our family is ready to close this chapter and open a new one.  What’s next for us?  More projects like this?  Maybe!  You’ll just have to wait and see!!