Looking west towards Washington University and Barnes Hospital, from Grand and Vanderventer in St. Louis City.

I observed this man while I was sitting in a Starbucks’s Coffee Shop in May of 2023. I was in Kuwait and probably the only one who spoke English in the entire place, yet I felt I could understand this man. He seemed to be struggling with something and it was weighing heavy on him. I was actually taking pictures of my camera with my cell phone when I saw him. It was just, the right place at the right time, I believe.

I derive great pleasure from wandering with my camera, discovering hidden gems in the world around me. While shooting with intention is rewarding, there is an undeniable joy in embracing the freedom to capture whatever captivates my attention. This spontaneous and creative approach allows me to document life as it unfolds, unscripted and unplanned.

The captivating power of images that instinctively beckon you to explore their lines is truly fascinating. It's as if these lines possess an irresistible pull, urging you to trace their course and uncover where they lead. Equally intriguing are the intricate patterns created by linear elements. They exude a vibrant energy and complexity that captivates me, almost entrancing me with their hypnotic allure.

In a photograph, the interplay of lights and shadows holds immense significance. It is through the delicate balance of these elements that a story can be conveyed. This narrative unfolds both in the realm of black and white photography, as well as in color. The skillful manipulation of lights and shadows imparts a profound sense of contrast and emotion to an image, lending it a genuine and evocative atmosphere.

The realm of darkness carries a distinct significance, diverging from the connotations of light. It is often linked to notions of malevolence, monsters, antagonists, and a general sense of fear. During childhood, many are afraid of the dark. However, I hold an affinity for darkness. I am captivated by the way even a small amount of light can penetrate and invade the vast expanse of darkness, illuminating hidden mysteries and evoking a sense of awe.

Appearances can be deceiving, and what may seem abandoned at first glance is not always the case. Sometimes, individuals may be present in unexpected moments, creating an illusion of abandonment. However, when something truly embodies abandonment, it evokes a deep, visceral sensation, a sickly feeling in the gut. It signifies the absence of what once was, leaving behind a void.

Curiously, these types of photographs often evoke an imaginary scent, as if the essence of the past lingers in the air. The imagination holds remarkable power, allowing us to perceive and connect with these evocative scenes on a profound level