The journey of New York-based artist Fairest into the world of art is deeply rooted in introspection, catalyzed by a harrowing incident in 2017. Suffering a cardiac arrest in a bustling Manhattan subway station, he found himself engulfed in a sea of indifference. The world continued its relentless pace, treating him as a mere disposable fragment of the urban backdrop. Amidst this maelstrom of apathy, an unexpected savior – a homeless man – reached out, piercing the bubble of urban detachment. A phenomenon this unsung hero was all too familiar with.

Fairest began to discern the pervasive concept of disposability all around him. Perfectly functional electronics, thoughtfully crafted furniture, and other items were routinely discarded. Whether it’s because a newer model is available, or the presence of minor defects, these objects lost their perceived value. Yet, they retained their inherent beauty and utility. This throwaway mentality now extended far beyond physical objects; it seeped into our values and ideas.

The incident left Fairest with permanent heart damage, warranting the implantation of an S-ICD device to ensure his safety. This transformation and merger with technology altered how the outside world perceived his “value.” Fairest’s narrative symbolizes the enduring beauty and value found in what society often deems disposable—whether objects, values, ideas, or even a human life. It underscores the duality of our modern world, where disposability is ubiquitous, yet fleeting moments possess the potential to reshape destinies.

This profound experience led Fairest to reevaluate his life and the countless images he had captured during his life. While in recovery, he delved into the deeper meanings concealed within these images. Beautiful, but at this moment in time almost trivial images that will one day be of great historic significance considering the rapid pace at which SoHo is changing. Fairest’s art began to document the subtle beauty woven into the fabric of daily life, incorporating elements of the present and past, and contemplations on the future of society and technology.

His art stands as a testament to the transformative power of artistic expression and the often-overlooked beauty and significance hidden in the disposable.