ABOUT:
The Silence Shoot started as a small project in 2011 in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan. Photographer and Founder of The Silence Shoot, Matthew Bryan Pruitt, wanted to show his siblings, who had experienced bullying, that they could over come it and that they were not alone and were loved. Being an individual who has suffered from depression and loneliness to the point of two su***de attempts, Matt
hew knew the importance of not only showing support but also being active in being support to others and providing resources and just time and love. Thus the Silence Shoot was born. Originally out of his small apartment, the Shoot has garnered attention across the state of Michigan as a leading active stance against bullying. While still a young project, Matthew and his crew has travelled all over lower Michigan bringing to shoot to both college campuses and community events. MEANING:
The tape represents the silencing that bullying condones a person to, physically, mentally and emotionally. It also represents the community that is willing to stand as survivors of bullying or allies and supporting one another and others. The black and white concept of the photographs is meant to be a representation of the oneness we are as humans and ultimately are all equal. The color red is a dual representation of 1) the blood of the victims and those we’ve lost to bullying and su***de, 2) the love we have for one another and of life and the willingness to share our hearts and selves to support bullied victims and create a community of support and advocates.