True American is a photo project I've been working on since January 2024. It delves into the essence of the American Dream, patriotism, and the relationship between racial and national identity. Through a blend of hyperrealism and documentary, “True American” constructs a poignant narrative, spotlighting stories of resilience, strength, and diversity inherent in the pursuit of the American Dream.
Commission
Film: Story Ave
Director: Aristotle Torres
Executive Producers:
Michael D'Alto, Gus Deardoff, Robert Aguilar, Claude Amadeo, Martin Cabrera, Cemí Guzmán, Luis Guzmán, Randal Sandler, Chris Triana, Jan McAdoo
Denim Tears Fall/Winter Core collection 2024
Commission
Fujifilm
X-H2 camera launch
I grew up in Louis H Pink Houses projects in the 90s. Home of dilapidated buildings, street fights, elevators carpeted with urine, dreams deferred, and people who look like me beaten down by their environment; 29 years later and not much has changed. I see those same people hanging around project hallways, the subjects of RIP posters, in jail or simply surviving their circumstance. This is the ghetto and you dare not fight what is already predetermined: you will be here for the rest of your life for the ghetto in New York City does not foster growth.
Everyone loves the ghetto aesthetic but who cares about the ghetto community?
Coming from an environment like this where you understand that you will receive no help, you feel helpless. You feel as though where you are is where you will remain. There is no light at the end of the tunnel because your tunnel is the ghetto. I am a product of this community and an advocate for its experience.
Trendsetters is a photo series encapsulating the quintessence of the African American ghetto experience through portraiture.
This project is an expression of appreciation and my declaration of care. Through my art, I hope to humanize and highlight an otherwise forgotten community while changing the narrative of what it means to be "ghetto."
Editorial
The Harlem Honeys and Bears is a swim team formed in 1979 with the purpose of teaching seniors ages 65 and up, swimming as a survival skill, as therapy and to promote overall health and wellness.
In 2024, Dove is celebrating their 20th anniversary of challenging beauty standards. As apart of this celebration, in partnership with Getty Images, Dove has commissioned a series of global portraiture from 25 photographers to set the one for the next era of Real Beauty.
The images shown are of Nicole Nicholas, owner of Aunts Et Uncles - a vegan eatery in Brooklyn, New York.
Commercial
Brand Campaign
Branded Content
Fujifilm
