Family Ties

“Family, where life begins, and love never ends” – Anonymous.

Family Ties is a photographic series based on the bond I have with my family. Although the project is personal, I also wanted to contrast the stereotypes that the media has put on African American families and show the tender loving side that often gets hidden. The series highlights individuals, pieces of our past, and items that hold special meaning.

Since childhood, my parents have always stressed how important family is. My mom and dad are originally from Texas, but moved to Oklahoma in the initial stages of their marriage. Not having extended family or friends in a new place was challenging for them, but as they created their own family it gave them the chance to recreate the same loving environments they grew up in. Those lessons are things that I still carry with me till this day and because of that love and support I naturally gravitate towards making work that includes them.

The pictures taken of previous photo albums give recognition to my parents and those who came before us because without them we would not be here today. The portraits I have taken in the present represent into whom we have grown. The images of objects give insight into what holds memories for us. Several of the photographs are closely cropped to make the viewer feel as if they are in the moment, with others taken slightly pulled back so the viewer understands what space we are in. The series is shot using natural, soft lighting to give the feeling of being welcomed into a home that brings you comfort.

Everyone’s families are different and how you decide to represent them is based on the moments that sometimes go unseen. Whether that be listening to music with your dad, sitting on the porch with your mom, or being goofy with your siblings, all that shapes how you feel about them and the mark they have made on you. My family has always made me feel loved and I hope that love can be felt through Family Ties.