The Life Of Saint Barbara
I started this project in an effort to explore authenticity — to what extent it matters in relation to photography, family history, or religion. I researched the life of Saint Barbara, Greek iconography, and my own family’s past. Where is the truth in these subjects, and where are the lies? I tried to blend these elements into a story, but a trip back home made it clear that the story was already written.
My mother was kind enough to participate in this project. She was brave enough to have her photo taken, even when she would say, “but I look terrible.” I would sit in my room and hear her working in her office below. I could tell it was her coming up the stairs or walking through the hall based on the sounds of the movement in our creaky house. She would come up just to talk or ask about the project and nod as I explained. I felt the unconditional love only a mother could give and realized she is a Saint, regardless of my project
