On Seeing, A Journal. #471

Growing UP: Thomas Heinbockel

March 22, 2022

10 years and 27 years

I have studied over 200 children from childhood into their 20’s. I began with some when their mothers were pregnant, and others, as was the case with Thomas, started about the time they could read and write. For all of them I made annual studio portraits and asked them to write answers to a series of questions, a kind of diary about their lives, their feelings, their hopes, their regrets.

I looked forward to seeing Thomas each year. With always a twinkle in his eyes, he was authentic and impressive; and a role model for staying in shape.

8 years old

9 years old

10 years old

11 years old

12 years old

13 years old

14 years old

15 years old

16 years old

18 years old

19 years old

27 years old

It was so wonderful seeing you every time you came, Thomas.

I wish you great luck in your endeavor to help others.

And, please do return in a few years.

The “Growing Up “Project:

I am interested in everything about human development. I am fascinated by maturation, growth, emotional, educational and physical development. My exploration, a major 30 year odyssey, has been an adventure that has yielded riches beyond my imagining.

Permission was signed by the parents of each and every child every year, and by the participants themselves once they turned 18. In addition, we’ve now sent copies of all of their writings and edited photographs to the participants for whom I have finished all my editing and have received full written permission from that group to publish and post.