Conni Freestone's solo exhibition "Proof I Was Here" opens June 1, 2026 at the Ocean County Artists' Guild in Island Heights, New Jersey, running through the end of the month. The show spans three interconnected spaces and explores themes of existence, memory, and identity through photography, featuring images of Bruce Springsteen, Asbury Park cars, Havana's aging vehicles, and Route 66 remnants, alongside self-portraiture. An opening reception on June 7 includes live music by Johnny Kasun and Timmy Basskidd Douglas, and a RiverJAM event on June 16 features additional performances.
The exhibition matters as it marks Freestone's first major solo show, positioning her as a visual philosopher who uses nostalgia to examine what is preserved and what is lost. It also highlights the Ocean County Artists' Guild's role in promoting regional arts, providing exhibition space and community programming. The event is sponsored by RiverJAM Music, underscoring local support for original music and visual art collaboration.