In February of 2025, New Orleans photographer Rusty Costanza received a life-altering diagnosis after many years of unexplained medical issues: ALS. ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) is a progressive neurological disease affecting the brain and spinal cord causing loss of muscle control. There is no cure.
Within minutes Costanza knew two things: he wanted to spend as much time as possible with family and friends and he wanted to keep photographing as long as he could. The big and heavy professional gear that he had used as a photojournalist at the Times-Picayune and as a commercial photographer was no longer feasible. Costanza opted for a small fixed lens camera that he uses to shoot black and white images from his new personal perspective. Through his photography, his goal is to spread the word about ALS and to thank all of the caregivers who have stepped up to help him.
Former Times-Picayune photo editor Andrew Boyd saw Costanza’s striking new images in the months that followed the diagnosis and knew a strong show was there. He approached the St. Tammany Art Association’s Artist Advisory Committee with the concept and out of those
conversations this show emerged. Boyd is the show curator.

Are you interested in sponsoring Rusty’s exhibition? Visit our website HERE to contribute!