Project Statement:
Throughout my photographic journey, I’ve come to realize that much of my work was driven by the desire to capture aesthetically pleasing images, often lacking deeper meaning or intention. Even when I worked within specific themes, my photos sometimes felt hollow, without a true connection to the subjects.
This changed when I was shooting my first roll of black and white film, using a new camera. While walking through the city, I passed an unhoused woman sitting at the corner of a building. I remembered that I had some spare food and water in my bag, so I returned to offer them to her. After a brief exchange, she told me about her dogs and asked if I could take a photo of her with them. That simple interaction sparked something inside me, leading to the creation of this project.
From that moment, I began approaching unhoused individuals, engaging in conversations, and offering whatever help I could—whether food, water, or simply a listening ear. The stories I encountered were often humorous, fascinating, and sometimes heartbreaking. Many of the people I met were reluctant to have their photos taken, but I learned that their stories could still be shared, even without showing their faces or knowing their names.
I realized that these individuals, who often endure unimaginable hardships and are relegated to the streets or public spaces, are still human beings deserving of dignity and respect. Their struggles, like those of anyone else, should not be ignored or marginalized. Through this project, I aim not to speak for them, but to present their humanity and to ask viewers to see them for who they truly are.
I am not here to offer solutions or tell you what to think, but simply to shed light on a reality many overlook. I encourage you to reflect, learn, and take action in your own way to better understand and address the issue of homelessness.
