My Journal

My Photo scholarship 2011 entry

Cuba | Monday, November 7, 2011 | 5 photos

As a nurse I’m privileged to be at the interface of the human experience, a viewpoint that has engendered in me a curiosity about the world. Typically I’m a logical and structured thinker, but I yearn to be fearless and imaginative. I use my camera to push myself out of my comfort zone and discover my world in a bold and creative way.

On one such adventure, I explored Habana-Veija, down narrow streets and dark alleyways. Steps away from the tourist path, away from the splendor of her restored Plazas, lay the true soul of Habana-Vieja; the proud and dignified residents that live within her crumbling walls. Habana-Veija sits on her front stoop, looking at the world with rheumy eyes, the light and shadows playing across the wrinkles on her face. Naïve observers may dismiss the aged and worn former beauty, but closer inspection reveals she possesses of a pride, grace, strength, resilience and beauty that only time can imbue.

Ignoring my trepidation, I embarked on my Habana-Veija adventure opting to “go brave” embracing fearlessness and creativity. My camera granted me legitimacy and authenticity when I asked the subjects to share their private world and untold stories. Habana-Veija’s residents welcomed me into their homes, with no shame or excuses about their circumstances, needing no permission to say "this is my life". It was an exhilarating privilege and experience.

In this scholarship I see an exceptional opportunity to begin growing into the photographer I dream of being. I want to learn from Jason Edwards how not to hide behind my camera but to connect to the subject without reservation. In him I see a photographer whose daring and passionate perspective I wish to embrace, taking me one step closer to becoming the storyteller I want to be.