Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer Steven G. Smith is undertaking an extensive documentary project to visually interpret the multifaceted character of the United States. Through thousands of photographs captured across numerous states, Smith's endeavor aims to foster unity and dismantle preconceived notions as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary. This initiative, backed by a significant Andrew Carnegie Fellowship, underscores the power of visual storytelling in reflecting societal realities and promoting mutual understanding.
In 2025, the Carnegie Corporation recognized 26 exceptional individuals as Andrew Carnegie Fellows, providing substantial grants of up to $200,000 for their scholarly pursuits. Among these distinguished recipients is Steven G. Smith, a celebrated photographer and cinematographer who also serves as a professor at the University of Connecticut.
Professor Smith, known for his Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalism and acclaimed film projects, is channeling his Carnegie grant into an expansive undertaking titled 'These United States: A Portrait of America in the 21st Century.' The ambitious project is designed to comprehensively document the American landscape and its people in the lead-up to the nation's semiquincentennial in 2026, marking 250 years since its founding in 1776.
Smith's primary objective with this visual narrative is to transcend superficial divisions, mitigate polarization, cultivate deeper understanding, and confront ingrained stereotypes. Since commencing the project in 2023, he has already traversed 20 states, amassing a vast collection of photographs that encapsulate the diverse experiences and environments within the country. The Carnegie grant is instrumental in allowing Smith to dedicate himself full-time to this monumental task, with plans to conclude his extensive fieldwork by July 4, 2026.
The culmination of Smith's efforts will manifest in several forms: a meticulously crafted tabletop photography book, a traveling exhibition showcasing his most impactful images, and an innovative digital multimedia experience. This digital platform will seamlessly integrate still photography with short films, interactive mapping, and narrative text, offering a rich and immersive exploration of American life.
Steven G. Smith's distinguished career began after he earned his master's degree from Ohio University's School of Visual Communication in 1994, leading him to a successful path as a photojournalist. His contribution to the Rocky Mountain News team earned him a 2003 Pulitzer Prize for Breaking News, specifically for his powerful coverage of Colorado's wildfires. Since joining the University of Connecticut faculty in 2013, Smith has continued to produce a prolific body of work, including his award-winning film 'The Long Goodbye,' which has graced numerous film festivals worldwide, including the prestigious Cannes World Film Festival in 2023. His photographs and cinematography have been featured in prominent outlets such as ESPN, National Geographic, and the Smithsonian, and he is the author of the 2018 photo essay book, 'Under the Dark Sky: Life in the Thames River Basin.'
Smith articulated his profound motivation for documenting America: to underscore the commonalities that bind its people, rather than focusing on their differences. He expressed being consistently inspired by the resilience, local pride, cultural richness, and genuine desire for connection he encounters throughout the nation. He emphasized the sheer diversity of the vast country and the remarkable graciousness of its inhabitants.
His work draws inspiration from photography legends such as Elliott Erwitt, admired for his blend of humor and humanity; Robert Frank, whose seminal work 'The Americans' captured the country's essence in the mid-20th century; and the Farm Security Administration photographers, whose historical documentation of American life between 1935 and 1944 remains invaluable.
The Andrew Carnegie Fellows Program, renowned for its support in the humanities and social sciences, empowers scholars to dedicate significant time to pressing societal issues. The 2025 cohort of fellows is particularly focused on understanding political polarization, with Carnegie committing substantial funding over three years to this critical research area. Fellows are chosen based on the originality and potential impact of their research, as well as their plans to effectively communicate their findings to a wide audience.
Professor Smith's photographic journey is a testament to his belief that American identity cannot be reduced to a single narrative. Instead, he views it as a rich tapestry woven from countless individual stories coexisting harmoniously.
As a chronicler of human experience, Steven G. Smith's project offers a timely and crucial reminder of the unifying power of art and empathy. In an era often characterized by division and discord, his dedication to capturing the authentic spirit of America — its resilience, diversity, and shared aspirations — serves as a beacon of hope. His work prompts us to look beyond superficial differences and recognize the intricate, beautiful mosaic that forms the American identity. Through the lens of his camera, we are invited to rediscover the connections that bind us, fostering a deeper sense of community and understanding in an increasingly complex world.
