Red Nickel Studio – Susan Bregman

I’m a photographer and author with a sharp focus on stories in the everyday, the banged up, and the overlooked. But most of all I love celebrating New England traditions — the quirkier the better.

Or, to put it another way, I love to document vintage stuff. I’ve written five books about only-in-New-England attractions, from candlepin bowling to Necco wafers, and I’m working on a sixth volume.

But before the books, there were pictures of neon signs, bowling alleys (especially candlepin), and roadside attractions. My photos and books bring people back to a time when the waitress at the diner knew your name – and how you liked your coffee. My work has stories to tell about growing up in New England: Ice cream cones and boardwalk arcades, road trips and drive-in movies. And, most of all, my words and images have the power to evoke memories of special times: An anniversary celebration at the Hilltop Steak House, a first apartment overlooking the CITGO sign, or a hot-fudge sundae at Bailey’s.

My work has been featured in solo and small-group exhibitions at the Newton Free Library, Faneuil Branch of the Boston Public Library, O’Neill Branch of the Cambridge Public Library, Athan’s Café, Harris A. Berman Diversity Gallery, and Arsenal Center for the Arts (now Mosesian). Photos have also been included in juried group exhibitions at the New Art Center, 13FOREST Gallery, Catamount Arts, and Umbrella Arts Gallery.

But after participating in countless art markets and exhibitions over the last 30 years, I have made the difficult decision to focus on my writing. I won’t stop taking photos, but Newton Open Studios will be my last show. It has been a joy connecting with the Newton community, and I hope you’ll stop by to say hello.