Artists & Artisans

Artists & Artisans is a project dedicated to capturing the skill and dedication behind handcrafted work. Driven by a desire to document the unique value of manual labor, I photograph artists and artisans whose work is deeply rooted in tactile processes. Makers and performers alike find connection through their hands-on approach, whether sewing, crafting, playing music, or creating visual art. This project is an ongoing journey, with plans to spotlight artists and artisans from specific regions, celebrating their commitment to craftsmanship and preserving the art of handmade work.

Artisans

Caque, seamstress

Caque, a skilled seamstress from Tenerife, brings traditional Canary Island attire to life from her workshop in La Orotava. With deep expertise in regional dress, she meticulously crafts each piece from scratch, drawing on an extensive knowledge of Canarian outfits. Her understanding of every intricate detail enables her to identify the origins and unique elements of each traditional style. Caque’s work preserves and celebrates the diversity of Canarian heritage, one stitch at a time.

Francisco Fariña

Francisco Fariña is a master timple maker from La Orotava, Tenerife, whose work celebrates this traditional Canary Islands instrument, renowned for its distinctive sound and cultural significance. With decades of experience, Fariña brings meticulous craftsmanship and a commitment to perfection to every timple he creates. His dedication ensures each instrument reflects the deep-rooted musical heritage of the Canary Islands, keeping this iconic symbol of regional identity alive and resonant.

Artists

Emmanuel Freeman

Emmanuel, a painter from Ghana, brings nature to life through his own unique perspective. Each brushstroke reveals elements of his heritage, and his work is imbued with a critical stance toward pressing global issues, particularly environmental preservation. Upon meeting Emmanuel, I was struck by his strength and introspective nature, inspiring me to propose a photoshoot that would capture the depth of his art and character.


The concept involved Emmanuel painting himself—a brushstroke beginning at his core, moving from his stomach up to his throat, and ending at his chin, symbolizing his art emerging from within. But in a captivating moment, he continued painting himself, transforming the shoot into a personal, expressive performance. The studio was charged with an incredible energy as he painted, embodying his art with each movement. I felt fortunate to witness and document this performance—a powerful expression of self for you to experience now through these images.