New Visions Artist Travels the World

A career in radiation therapy may not seem to be the natural precursor to a second career in photography, but for Rozarii Lynch, this month’s New Visions artist, these two careers are inextricably linked.

A native of Ireland, Lynch’s work with cancer patients in the UK and Australia made her acutely aware of the importance of pursuing her passions. This realization led her to a decision to travel around the world—a trip that led her to photography, to her training at Seattle’s Art Institute, and on to publications in The New York Times, The Seattle Times, Seattle PI, Wall Street Journal, Newsweek, and Seattle Opera’s magazines and programs.

Her exhibit at McCaw Hall represents the Barabaig, Iraqw, and Maasi tribes of Tanzania. Two years ago, she spent a month traveling to remote villages, many of which were only accessible by foot, where she stayed with local families, and learned of their traditions and their lifestyles. “For many of the people I photographed,” Lynch says, “life is simply about survival. This takes such labor and tenacity and yet they take time for others and are gracious and generous. These photos are my way to respect and share their honesty and dignity.” —Jessica Murphy