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2023 EDITION

Cosmic Aspirations: A Grounded Perspective

Story by Alejandro Gomez




Cosmic Aspirations: A Grounded Perspective



Alejandro Gomez takes us on a heartwarming journey of exploration, not beyond our atmosphere, but within it. With "Cosmic Aspirations: A Grounded Perspective," Gomez turns the lens away from the stars and back towards the Earth. His focus lies not with the astronauts or engineers directly involved in the space missions, but with the ordinary people who are inspired by them.

Gomez's subjects are young and old, rich and poor, from every corner of the globe. They share a common bond – a passion for the cosmos, fueled by the extraordinary developments in space exploration. His images reflect how space exploration has penetrated the public consciousness, manifesting in education, popular culture, and individual dreams.

The narrative of Gomez's work is inspiring and intensely personal. Each photograph is a testament to human curiosity, ambition, and our shared fascination with the mysteries of the universe. By showing how space exploration impacts people's lives on a more personal level, Gomez reminds us that we are all a part of this cosmic journey.

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Alejandro Gomez

About the photographer

Alejandro Gomez, a native of Mexico, is not just a photographer; he is a visual storyteller who conveys narratives of hope, ambition, and resilience through his lens. His work is a testament to his belief in the power of dreams, the capacity of human endeavor, and the uniting force of shared passions. His recent project, "Cosmic Aspirations: A Grounded Perspective," beautifully encapsulates his unique approach to photography.

Born and raised in a small town near Guadalajara, Gomez's journey into the world of photography began with his father's old film camera. At the age of twelve, he captured the poverty, joy, and vibrant colors of his neighborhood, sparking a lifelong passion for storytelling.

In his teenage years, Gomez migrated to Mexico City, where he juggled various jobs while pursuing photography. He managed to save enough for a professional camera and started freelancing for local newspapers. The city's pulsating energy and social dynamics offered him an eclectic canvas, further developing his storytelling ability.

Gomez's breakthrough came in 2020 with his poignant photo series, "Under the Concrete Canopy," documenting the lives of Mexico City's street children. His empathetic approach to capturing their harsh realities gained international acclaim, putting Gomez on the world's photographic map.

This success fueled his ambition, and he ventured into more diverse themes and broader geographies. Yet, his work always carried an undercurrent of hope and human resilience, regardless of the subject. His pieces are more than just photos; they are narratives that provoke thought and evoke emotion.

In his latest project, "Cosmic Aspirations: A Grounded Perspective," Gomez offers an original and touching view on the current theme of space exploration. Instead of focusing on the astronauts, engineers, or entrepreneurs, Gomez turns his lens towards ordinary people who are inspired by these advancements. His work beautifully illustrates the impact of space exploration on the common man's aspirations and dreams.

Away from his camera, Gomez is a passionate advocate for photography education and inclusivity. He has conducted several workshops and webinars for aspiring photographers, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds. He strongly believes in the democratization of photography, viewing it as a potent medium for social change and individual expression.

Despite his global recognition, Gomez remains rooted in his culture and upbringing. He often returns to his hometown to photograph and document the lives and transformations happening there. Gomez believes in giving back to his community and is actively involved in local projects promoting arts and education.

To say that Alejandro Gomez is just a photographer would be an understatement. He is a visionary artist, a compassionate activist, an educator, and a storyteller. His work doesn't just capture moments; it evokes emotions, provokes thoughts, and tells stories that transcend borders and cultures. Through his photography, Gomez paints a portrait of humanity in all its beautiful complexity, reminding us that we are all part of a broader narrative, all reaching for the stars.



Photos in this series

"The Star-gazer" - A boy, aged around ten, looks up at the night sky through a homemade telescope. The photo is taken from a low angle, making the boy seem larger than life. The backdrop of countless stars enhances the emotion of awe and wonder. "Learning to Fly" - A group of students construct a model rocket in their classroom. The lighting highlights the students' focus and determination, and the composition emphasizes the rocket's blueprint, which sprawls across their table, symbolizing dreams in the making. "Grandmother's Tales" - An elderly woman gestures animatedly, a newspaper article about the Mars mission spread out before her. She's surrounded by a group of spellbound children. Natural light casts long shadows, giving the scene an almost magical quality. "Reach for the Stars" - A young girl in ballet class, mid-leap, is captured from a low angle, mimicking flight. In the background, a poster of the Milky Way adorns the studio wall. The combination of movement and lighting creates a sense of weightlessness. "Cosmic Cornfield" - A cornfield at sunset with a scarecrow dressed as an astronaut in the foreground. The photograph is shot at eye level, with the horizon dividing it. The warm light of the setting sun infuses the scene with a surreal quality. "Dreamer's Desk" - A close-up of a messy desk filled with sketches of rockets, planets, and stars. The focused light on the drawings symbolizes the concentrated passion. The composition communicates the chaos and creativity inherent in all great endeavors.