A Fisherman's Journey
I was born and raised in a fishing village called Claxton Bay, on the Caribbean Island of Trinidad. I hail from a long line of local fishermen. I left the village at a young age, but the stories my father told me of island life and the fishing experience have shaped my life, defined my values, and inspired my ambitions.
For "A Fisherman’s Journey" I decided to take these stories beyond the realm of remembered words, and give them a visual life. So I returned to my village and spent several weeks photographing its daily life. Every morning I would get up and document the fishermen as they engaged both in their vocation and in recreational activities—fishing, playing cricket, or just being at home.
Most of the fishermen I photographed are related to me, but I was still nervous about reconnecting with them. It came naturally, though, because they all knew my father. In fact, they were too receptive at first, posing for pictures all the time. They loved being photographed. But I wanted to capture them in a documentary style, without awareness of the camera. Fortunately, the longer I stayed in Claxton Bay, the more invisible I became. And I felt a flashback of happiness from remembering the time I spent with my father as a child.
My hope in creating these images goes beyond reclaiming my own heritage. I wanted something more universal: a statement that there are still places in the world that are peaceable, where people work hard yet still have time to enjoy one another’s company and the gifts of nature.
Trinidad & Tobago, 2013
Pothounds
Pothounds: Navigating Trinidad's Stray Dog Dilemma
Stray dogs have long been a familiar sight on the streets of Trinidad, and among them, a particular breed has captured hearts for their extraordinary intelligence and survival instincts - the Pothounds. These dogs, known for their ability to navigate urban environments with surprising skill, offer a unique perspective on the enduring issue of stray dogs in the region.
One of the most endearing traits of Pothounds is their tendency to embark on evening walks, often with a social objective. Observers have reported these dogs venturing out in groups, almost as if they're meeting up with their pals for a casual stroll. This behavior not only showcases their social nature but also hints at their sophisticated cognition and communication abilities.
Despite the intelligence and adaptability of Pothounds, the larger issue of stray dogs in Trinidad remains a significant challenge. Stray dog populations have persisted over the years, posing concerns related to health, safety, and overall urban aesthetics. Efforts to address this issue have been ongoing, with numerous organizations working tirelessly to make a positive impact.
The good news is that there are dedicated organizations working to make a difference. These groups are not only focused on providing shelter and medical care to stray dogs but also advocating for spaying and neutering programs to control population growth.
Trinidad & Tobago, 2013 and continued in 2023
Bonds Beyond Words
Bonds Beyond Words
Witness the unspoken connections between humans and horses. These images tell stories of trust, communication, and companionship. From a tender pat to an intimate gaze, the photographs encapsulate the profound relationships that form between these magnificent animals and those who care for them.
One of the most extraordinary aspects of horses is their ability to establish profound connections with humans. Their innate sensitivity allows them to perceive emotions and intentions, forging bonds that transcend language. The trust that develops between a horse and its rider is a testament to their remarkable capacity for empathy and understanding.
Through my photography series, I aimed to encapsulate the myriad stories that horses have to tell. From the playful foals discovering the world around them to the seasoned companions who have shared countless adventures, each horse carries a narrative of its own. Through every click of the shutter, I sought to honor these narratives and convey the emotions they evoke.
My journey to the Long Island stable to document the lives of horses has been a deeply enriching experience. These remarkable creatures embody a harmonious blend of strength, grace, and emotional intelligence. Through my lens, I hope to convey their beauty and essence to the world, sharing the stories of these magnificent beings who have captured my heart.
Long Island 2013
The Cobbler
A decade ago, Lenny owned a small shoe repair store on the East Side, precisely at 1st Avenue and 57th Street. Today, the echoes of his skilled hands and the tradition he upheld serve as a reminder of a time when cobblers were an integral part of the urban landscape.
Lenny's shoe repair store was more than just a business; it was a haven for those seeking to preserve their beloved footwear. Whether it was a worn-out pair of heels, a cherished pair of leather boots, or the classic loafers that needed a new lease on life, Lenny had a magic touch. His shop was a place of transformation, where shoes went in shabby and came out looking as good as new.
Cobbling is an art that requires a combination of skills that seem to be slipping away from the modern world. It's not just about sticking soles back to shoes or replacing laces. It's about understanding materials, mending them with finesse, and using tools that have stories of their own. Cobblers like Lenny had an innate sense of the materials they worked with, knowing exactly how much pressure to apply, where to stitch, and how to shape the shoe to perfection.
Lenny's dedication to his craft was more than evident in the photograph he held of his daughter. As he carefully showed me the photo, his eyes lit up with pride and a touch of nostalgia.
In a world increasingly dominated by machines, cobbling remained a manual craft that celebrated the human touch. The precision of a cobbler's hand is unparalleled. They could reshape a shoe, stitch a seam, or affix a sole with an attention to detail that no machine could replicate. Each repair was a testament to their dedication and passion for their work.
Manhattan, NYY 2013