Low Key Community is a series about community, empowerment, growth, and hope. Society is looking in the mirror right now and coming to terms with what it sees. It was the beginning of June when I finally paused and looked into a mirror, I had physically changed. After the lockdown began, I unintentionally quit shaving. I never thought a beard would suit me, but I appreciated what I saw. It is sometimes easier to accept change and grow gracefully. We should all try looking more.

It does not matter who you are or how you have impacted others, we are a community. Our community is about the connections and contributions each individual makes. A thriving community demands diversity and compassion, without growth we become stagnate and isolated. Let’s grow together and grow stronger.

Everyone has a story to share. To date, I have captured the stories of community activists who stand for systemic change and accountability in the prison system and their communities, mentors and friends who have guided me into and through my educational and artistic journey, friends who have been there for me when I least deserved it, a local podcaster who is also creating work about the human experience, a PhD candidate who I am excited where his research goes. Many more are invited and I hope to grow this series into a community portrait of amazing people.

“You have captured essence, passion, and practice. Such incredible people and stories to tell… When I look at these photos I see pure truth. It’s so nice to see photos that are about the real people and not the beautiful photo capture of a moment where we look perfect. We are engaged with you as you photograph and enter really sensitive issues in conversation with us. The reality of life is such a relief.” - JTT