Since adolescence, I’ve yearned for a deeper grasp of life and self. Raised as an only child, by an abusive mother with an absent father in the neighborhood of Echo Park, I was compelled to turn to photography as a means to comprehend and escape my reality. Themes such as family dynamics, particularly the bond between mother and child; relationships consisting of friendship and romance; body image depicted in my self-portraits; and the exploration of identity through portraits of fellow queer and BIPOC individuals, serve as a reflection of my deepest wounds and desires.

Through photography, I’ve forged connections with a multitude of individuals who invite me into their sacred spaces, allowing me to witness them authentically and explore the ever-changing landscape of Los Angeles. This process alleviates the inevitable loneliness of young adulthood, bringing me closer to my community and home. Fragments of ourselves are scattered in the images we’ve created: the tenderness of skin as the warm sun hides in the distance, possessions and traditions rooted in our identities binding us together, and the ancient alleyways and sidewalks we’ve traversed countless times.

In my journey as a photographer, I have fallen in love with its hardships and the lessons it has taught me. I strive to connect with more people and myself, delving into the intricacies of what makes us human. I aspire to create more memories to hold onto and honor my subjects and myself for who we are.