An introduction to the exhibition written by Kerry McCarthy, sports journalist and Senior Writer at Runner’s World magazine:
Welcome to Unscripted, an exhibition of the world’s fastest man as you’ve always wanted to see him but never have: with his guard truly down. His charisma and personality shine out every time he steps onto the track leaving fans feeling at once as though they know him but also wishing they knew him better. The images taken by my friend, renowned New York-based photographer Karen Fuchs, bring you Bolt at his most natural, spontaneous and vulnerable, and many of the images show him at home in his local community in Jamaica – a common occurrance. Karen was allowed unprecedented access to Usain between 2004 and 2011, shooting him as a gangly teenager long before he even came to the world’s attention, and documenting his journey from callow youth to multiple world record-smashing global superstar. Having interviewed Usain on a number of occasions myself over this period, and even been present at several of the shoots that contribute to this exhibition, I can say that it is remarkable the extent to which Karen has been able to capture the essential essence of the man: a young guy almost unaware of his prodigious talent but also with a healthy lust for life, a disregard for formality and a firm belief that family, friends and fun are just as important as the hard work and effort he puts in to achieve exceptional greatness. Over the seven years Karen has spent working periodically in Jamaica, both with Usain and on other projects, Karen has grown to love the island and is touched by the determination of its young people to further themselves and carve out a better life – which is one of the reasons for this exhibition taking place; a substantial part of the proceeds will go to select charities focusing on children's needs, working to improve the lives and prospects of young people in Jamaica. It’s a cause close to Karen's heart as a way of saying thank you and giving back to the island which has provided her with so much inspiration. Whether or not Usain beats his own records and retains his Olympic golds this summer, nothing detracts from these moments of a great man on the cusp of immortality. The exhibition is partnered by Arts Futures, and is free to the public. Limited edition prints to benefit select charities are available for sale.
