INTRODUCTION

A few years ago, for the first time, I noticed an unusual mailbox. It looked like an airplane about to take off. Although I contemplated taking a picture of it, I decided not to waste my film on a mailbox. But, I was unable to get this image out of my mind and returned several weeks later to photograph it. I decided to photograph other unique mailboxes and put together a small collection. By small, I meant about twelve.

I had no idea then that my newfound interest would lead to leaving a full-time job, acquiring international publicity, driving nearly 25,000 miles, and creating a book that validates mailbox art as an American folk art.

"The Mailbox Project" evolved over a period of five years. At first, I looked for handmade mailboxes along back roads in and around the counties where I lived and worked. My search continued in other states during vacations; spotting an extraordinary mailbox was like finding a treasure. While talking with the owners, I realized that each mailbox had a fascinating story behind it.

The United States Postal Service and nationwide news media publicized my efforts to locate one-of-a-kind mailboxes. I chose my favorites from hundreds of snapshots sent by people from all over the country. Then I planned a 3-month-long, 18,500 mile journey from coast to coast and back again to complete the photography and interviews with mailbox makers and owners. I set out to photograph handmade mailboxes and, in the process, discovered America and the creative spirit of its people.

- Rachel Epstein