From my perspective, creating artwork has been an exploration of my outside environment. I have been making observations about the relationships with my family and friends in general.

One of my major subjects throughout my artwork has been to document the special bond I share with my cousin Vanessa Marzal. Although technically we are not related by blood, Vanny and I are art students and best friends as well. However, her current situation has differed from mine.

Since I come from New York, I have had a lot of advantages that have improved my career. I was able to obtain a degree in studio art and gain support for my mental stability. Vanny was not able to finish college in Lima, Peru - where the rest of our family originates. Instead, she decided to live a life of a recluse, confining herself within the four walls of her room. My goal in creating artwork is to include Vanny within my interest in photography.

The few times that I travel to visit relatives, I often come to gain insight and understanding through my interactions with Vanny. Without her feedback, I do not believe I would have the stimulation that every artist needs to pursue their creation. ...