"Ritmos Urbanos: Personajes X de Pereira"("Urban Rhythms: X Personalities of Pereira")

I capture the lives of street vendors, artists, musicians, artisans, and everyday working people from the streets of my hometown in Colombia and around the world. My work is driven by a fascination with people.

I am deeply captivated and fascinated by the diverse stories of people, and my photographic journey has led me to document a myriad of individuals in my homeland of Colombia. From street vendors to street artists, encompassing musicians, artisans, and more, I seek to unveil the daily lives of hardworking Colombians who earn their livelihoods on the streets. I hold immense respect for those who work hard to earn a honest living. Having had the privilege of traveling around the world, I've observed and captured, through my eyes and lens, the essence of honest street labor. Street photography has long been my passion, and I am dedicated to reflecting this dedication through my work.

This ongoing project has been nurtured over several years. I traverse the bustling streets of my city, engaging with the people, immersing myself in their stories, and delving into the circumstances that have led them to the streets( if any). This collection encompasses a diverse spectrum of individuals, from musicians serenading passersby on their way to work to vendors peddling lottery tickets and cigarettes, individuals tidying up litter-strewn streets, and artisans skillfully repairing watches. What sets this project apart, in my belief, is the authenticity of the captured moments. I aim to connect with the people on a personal level, not merely as a photographer exploiting their circumstances but as a friend who listens and grants them a poetic voice. This collection features a blend of both black-and-white and color photographs.

Thank you for taking the time to explore a glimpse of my work, and looking forward to hearing your response. My intention for this grant is to invest in improved equipment, curate an exhibition, and potentially sell some of the photographs to give back to the individuals I've had the privilege to photograph—many of whom have become dear friends.

Once again, thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely, Ana Angel