Calder Zwicky and Abigail Montes

CZ asks AM about their journey as a photographer. AM shares how their interest began by learning from her father, and their skillset expanded through high school and college. AM also shares that resources and access were limited at the start of their photography journey.

CZ asks AM about humanity in their work and what drives them creatively. AM says that their low points in their life has driven them to see their own potential and trust their ability as a photographer. Humanity is the center of AM work since they focus on the people of the Bronx.

CZ asks AM to share her immediate connection the the Bronx. AM says that they grew up on Simpson Street in the South Bronx in the 1980's. AM acknowledges the reputation that the Bronx has, and says that the negative assumptions of the Bronx are intentional and systemic. AM uses their work to highlight the Bronx that they know and love.

CZ asks AM about the formation of their collaboration. AM says that they were connected by a mutual colleague who knew that AM could meet the needs of F.Y. Eye and Bronx Health Reach. The goal of this project is to highlight the connection between mothers and sons to keep the community safe.

AM shares why the subjects for this project are important. AM says that the subjects are all Bronx residents who are apart of the least vaccinated populations in the borough. The purpose of showcasing everyday people was to show that someone you may know is vaccinated and is keeping the community safe by doing so.

AM says that this project focuses on community, and that Black and brown people in the Bronx matter.

CZ asks AM why do they think the Bronx has the lowest vaccine rates in the city. AM says the Bronx has been historically left behind and the general distrust due to the history of neglect plays a part in the vaccine rates.

CZ asks AM about the impact of this project on the Bronx. AM says that this campaign will allow folks from the Bronx to see themselves and see their community with this very personal, community-centered approach.

AM talks about the power of the mother/son dynamic, and how these photos shift narratives and stereotypes of Black and Latino men by showing them as caring and protective.