The power of photography has been profound during the COVID-19 pandemic first and foremost in its ability to capture and communicate the human impact of the global crisis. Thanks to a group of New York-based photographers, imagery is also making a monetary contribution to one of the city s hardest-hit hospitals. The Pictures for Elmhurst project raised over $1.3 million for Elmhurst Hospital in Queens in just 10 days by selling $150 photo prints an absolute steal for collectors from prominent artists including Oto Gillen, Sharif Hamza, Richard Renaldi, Jody Rogac and others. The effort was inspired by a similar fundraiser in Italy, the New York Daily News reported.
The Pictures for Elmhurst project adds desperately-needed supplies for those on the front lines fighting this virus, Elmhurst Hospital representatives said in a statement. It is inspiring to know that such talented photographers and artists have our back. The collective banded together nearly 100 New York photographers, and also invited nearly 100 international artists to share poignant pictures of the city prior to the pandemic. After printing, processing and shipping, all proceeds from each sale ($135) were wired directly to Elmhurst Hospital, according to the Daily News. Mood Ring, 2017 Annie Powers/caption We extend our deepest gratitude to all 187 contributing artists and to everyone who gave by buying a print or making a donation, Pictures For Elmhurst wrote on its website. Read more in the New York Daily News and The Cut.