Characters
Some people, presences, and gazes are entrancing, haunting. They conjure stories and unlock closeted fears. Many of the characters here are wearing makeup, costumes, or masks.
Often their eyes speak volumes. Encountering them on the street, we might politely look away. However, I invite you to stare as long as you dare.
Afraid to be seen or heard, a wraith cloaked in darkness peers around a door frame. She was summoned by concern, awakened by the familiar sounds of violence in her home. Although she wears the velvety skin of youth, her knowing, serious expression reveals a childhood lost. There are no more tears.
Lola is a bearded man with painted face and false eyelashes in a gay pride parade. His beard is obscured to add to the gender bending ambiguity of his come-hither look.
A reveler in Verona's Papa del Gnocco parade strikes a contemplative pose.
Intentional camera movement adds to the ornate quality of this Day of the Dead painted and bejeweled mask.
The spray paint artist is faster and more dramatic than a plastic surgeon in transforming the persona of his willing subject.
The metallic bird mask doesn't hide much of the undulating muscleman who dances before LED flames.
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