Thomas Card resurrects the beauty within the everyday in his highly acclaimed portrait series Elevations. Elevations transform the lowly New York City pigeon into a symbol of hope, grandeur, and power. Often a reminder of the city’s grimy environment or even the neglectful nature of humanity, these birds take on regal stature in Card’s images. Carefully framed faces, wings outstretched, and even taking to flight, each bird encompasses an aura of undeniable significance. Channeling the historical lineage of portraiture, he engages a set of iconography that aggrandize each bird. The inherent nobility is intensified by the photograph's final production. Deliberately composed with their final presentation in mind, Card exhibits these works on a monumentally large scale. Now a dominating force before our eyes we are incapable of ignoring their excellence. Immersed in the power of their presence, viewers are entranced by the otherworldly scenes Card constructs. What were once simple scenes are now ethereal investigations through bold visceral palettes, reminiscent of those used by artists like Francis Bacon. A manipulation of color theory that has permeated the lineage of painting, is explored through photographic means. Masterfully blending colors so they coalesce into harmonious and uplifting balances are juxtaposed with the stark contrasts of color that vibrate and add new tension that enthralls his viewers, demonstrating the turmoil and struggle of reaching new heights. His keen eye allows him to capture his background so the subtleties of texture are illuminated. They become scenes that embody the intricacies of light that add new depth to the viewer’s perception of the humble pigeon and their existence in the everyday. Within the realm of Elevations, the iconic New York dream is realized. A story of humble beginnings becomes one of the underdogs claiming their rightful status and power. In a balance of vivacious energy and soothing tranquility, Card reveals the unseen story of the pigeon to uplift and enchant his viewers.