Hello, everyone! I'm Jor Arcila, originally from Houston, Texas, but currently residing in the vibrant city of Oakland, California. From a young age, I've been passionate about capturing the unfiltered emotions and moments that life has to offer. Whether it's the warmth of communal gatherings around a crackling wood-fire for a hearty sancocho, or the timeless joy of celebrations filled with classic salsa tunes, my inspiration has always been deeply rooted in the undocumented narratives of the close-knit community of family and friends who nurtured me. They instilled in me the invaluable lesson of cherishing every single day and through them I learned to appreciate the strength in people's struggles, triumphs, and resilience. That's why my lens is often drawn to bringing these stories to light, capturing moments of intimate connection and human perseverance. With a deep respect for the people I photograph, I aim to create spaces for dialogue, healing, and advocacy through the power of visual storytelling that speaks to human complexities, celebration, and curiosity all while challenging societal narratives that perpetuate oppression. Thank you for being here, it’s greatly appreciated.
