The "Reenactor" series
The "Reenactor" series captures the vibrant essence of military cavalry Reenactor Jim Nawrocki as he breathes life into the past.
For the last 53 years, he has collected vintage historical uniforms, helmets, swords, guns, maps and other artifacts. Jim immerses himself in the experiences of brave officers who faced critical life-and-death decisions.
By donning these meticulously preserved uniforms and wielding period-appropriate props, Jim transforms into figures such as a British 15th Dragoons Sergeant and a Napoleonic Polish Imperial Lancer Officer. Each reenactment allows him to embody the courage and complexity of these historical characters, illuminating and re-imagining their stories.
Jim's passion for reenactment is deeply personal. He has ancestral ties to the Napoleonic Army, which fuels his connection to this rich heritage. His participation in Revolutionary War reenactments honors his lineage, but also fulfills a lifelong aspiration to become an actor. Through this artistic journey, he channels his theatrical ambitions into a powerful exploration of identity, history and memory.
This series features a blend of traditional portraits and digitally enhanced composited environmental portraits that transport viewers into the worlds Jim inhabits. These images Invite the viewer to reflect on the narratives of bravery and sacrifice, bridging the gap between past and present.
In "Reenactor" Jim Nawrocki not only pays tribute to history, but also invites us to actively engage with it. His work serves as a poignant reminder that choices made by military leaders in the past continue to influence our lives today.
Terry Vitacco
