Award-winning photographer Joe McNally’s poignant series, “Faces of Ground Zero: Portraits of the Heroes of September 11, 2001,” will soon be on display at the Museum, offering a powerful visual tribute to the individuals who responded to the September 11 attacks. The exhibit, which features 246 large-scale Polaroid portraits, captures the resilience and bravery of those involved in the rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero. The exhibition is set to open on November 20, with a special public program to mark the occasion.
“Faces of Ground Zero” was created in the weeks following the 9/11 attacks when New York City was still grappling with the devastating events. McNally, a celebrated photographer known for his expertise and ability to capture raw emotion, chose to utilize a unique medium—a large-format Polaroid camera—to create intimate and powerful portraits of the firefighters, police officers, first responders, and volunteers who risked their lives in the aftermath of the tragedy. The result is a collection of images that not only document the faces of those who were at the heart of the recovery efforts but also preserve their stories of courage, sacrifice, and humanity.
To coincide with the exhibit’s opening, the Museum will host a public program titled “Faces of Ground Zero: A Conversation with Joe McNally” on November 20. In this event, McNally will sit down with the Museum’s Executive Vice President of Collections & Chief Curator, Dr. Jan Ramirez, to discuss his experience creating the “Faces of Ground Zero” series. McNally will share insights into the emotional weeks following the attacks, his decision to use Polaroid photography, and the profound impact of interacting with the individuals who became the subjects of his portraits. This program will provide attendees with a rare opportunity to hear firsthand accounts of the creation of this iconic project and the emotions behind each photograph.
The exhibition and the accompanying conversation are not only a tribute to the heroes of 9/11 but also a chance for visitors to reflect on the resilience of a community united in the face of unimaginable tragedy. McNally’s portraits do more than document; they invite viewers to connect with the individuals who, in their acts of bravery and compassion, became symbols of hope during one of America’s darkest moments. Each portrait is a story in itself—a reminder of the power of the human spirit and the importance of remembering the past.
The “Faces of Ground Zero” exhibit will be accessible to the public starting on November 20, with a selection of McNally’s portraits on display at the Museum. The public program, featuring a conversation with Joe McNally and Dr. Jan Ramirez, will take place on the same day, offering insights into the making of the exhibit and the impact it has had over the years.
The event is free, and those interested in attending can register for tickets
https://www.911memorial.org/learn/upcoming-public-programs
McNally’s “Faces of Ground Zero” remains one of the most powerful photographic projects dedicated to 9/11, serving as a lasting tribute to the heroes who played a crucial role during a critical time in history. As the exhibit opens at the Museum, it provides an opportunity for visitors to honor their courage, remember their sacrifices, and be inspired by their enduring legacy.