“I believe that passion motivates people and drives them to do the unexpected… This passion also allows us to focus on the task at hand and helps us to stay motivated and driven. Stoney’s passion for the Cowboys is an example of how passion can be used to inspire others.”
INSIDE THE HOME OF A DALLAS COWBOYS FAN
ABOUT MY PHOTO ESSAY
by Ward Sakeik
Stoney Kersh’s photo essay depicts the passion he has for all his precious items, as well as the process by which he came to collect the pieces. It’s fascinating to see how people’s passions can develop into such an important part of their lives and become integral parts of their character.
I believe that passion motivates people and drives them to do the unexpected. When we are passionate about something, we tend to be more excited about it, and that motivates us to bring value to others. This passion also allows us to focus on the task at hand and helps us to stay motivated and driven. Stoney’s passion for the Cowboys is an example of how passion can be used to inspire others.
From the ceiling to the ground, Dianna and Stoney’s home is adorned with Cowboy memorabilia. From the moment one enters the doors, their eyes start to wonder to all the different posters, toys, cards, and so much more. Their house is a home where each child walks out with something he or she treasures, whether it be Cowboys cards, a hat, or a sticker. They make sure each child leaves with a smile on their face. Their goal is to create memories for children that will last them a lifetime.
Stoney doesn’t care how much everything is worth, he simply just enjoys collecting Cowboys pieces because they bring him joy and is constantly working on projects to compliment his collection.
Stoney and Dianna thrift for items, and occasionally wake up to find Cowboys memorabilia in their yard that people have left for them. They are grateful for each item they receive and cherish the items by adding them to their collection.
They enjoy welcoming people into their home and sharing their passion with others in ways in which it brings happiness to people.
Meet Ward Sakeik
In 2010, I immigrated to the United States from the Middle East. I currently work as a wedding photographer where I’m surrounded by beautiful cultures, traditions, and fashion. I believe photography is a powerful way to preserve memories that will be cherished for years to come, and I absolutely love my job.
I’m a Journalism and Broadcasting senior graduating in December from the University of Texas at Arlington. I’m looking forward to hopefully getting a job in the news industry where I can produce news packages.
My hobbies include road cycling, listening to audiobooks and podcasts, and cooking and baking. I’m passionate about learning and understanding different cultures and I’m excited to see what my future has in store. I’m eager to tackle any challenges that come my way, and I’m confident that I’m up for the task.
About AMA+UTA CreateCollab
Since the Fall 2022 semester, the Arlington Museum of Art has partnered with The University of Texas at Arlington and a senior-level digital storytelling class to explore a wide variety of contemporary themes inspired by the museum’s mission, values, and exhibitions.
Class projects include photo essays, one-minute documentaries, and brief audio stories.
Associate Professor of Communication Erika Pribanic-Smith teaches the class. She values opportunities to bring real-world experiences to her students.
“My goal is to give my students real-world experience in all of my classes, creating real stories using real sources,” said Dr. Pribanic-Smith. “Creating stories that will be published for the public to see, not just submitted for a grade, gives students extra incentive to put forth their best effort. Furthermore, working with professionals gives the students another layer of feedback to re-enforce what they’re learning in the classroom. I prefer to work with organizations like the Arlington Museum of Art who will benefit in some way from the students’ content so that we are providing a service to the community.”
