Roadside Descansos

They're often somber, even unsettling. That initial feeling of unease is part of what drew me in.

Descansos are visible expressions of grief, marking a specific, often traumatic event. But they're also more than just memorials; they're acts of remembrance, love, and healing.  Photographing them allowed me to pause, to contemplate the lives lost, and to consider the resilience of those left behind. I also wanted to document them. Often they are temporary, weathered by the elements, or removed over time. The photographs are a permanent record.

I focus on the details - the handmade crosses, the faded photographs, the wilting flowers, the children's toys. These are tangible reminders of a life, a personality. Before photographing any descanso, I paused and considered the space with respect. I always tried to be mindful of the spirit of the site. I never moved or altered any items at the memorial. The goal was always to document, to honor, not to exploit.

I hope that viewers will see beyond the initial shock or sadness and recognize the humanity in these expressions of grief, about loss, remembrance, and the ways we cope with tragedy. Ultimately, I hope the project serves as a reminder of the preciousness and fragility of life, and the importance of cherishing the moments we have.