The Exhibit
Mentes Hermosas is a poignant exploration of humanity amidst mental crises, captured through the lens of empathy and understanding. Set within a mental facility in Cd. Juárez, Mexico, the exhibit showcases portraits of individuals facing profound challenges with their mental health. What sets these portraits apart is the raw authenticity with which these individuals express themselves in front of the camera with nominal prompting or posing assistance. Their organic expressions testify to each person's inherent beauty and dignity, even amidst their most difficult moments. Through this powerful showcase, the photographer seeks to dismantle damaging stereotypes that associate fear with mental illness, instead inviting viewers to recognize and appreciate the resilience and strength of those navigating mental health challenges.
MADE IN ITALY
The captivating images featured in this exhibit will be beautifully displayed on 24x60” double-sided, ultra-transparent floor-standing acrylic panels. This choice of medium has been carefully selected to highlight the photographs' vibrant colors and intricate details. Excellent print fidelity and straightforward color management ensure a flawless final product. Crafted with precision and expertise, these panels were custom-made in Italy by GraphiStudio to deliver breathtaking results.
In my extensive journey as a commercial photographer, particularly drawn to portraiture, I've often pondered the tendency for people to become guarded or distant around those labeled as "different." Whether the dissimilarity is apparent physically or lies within mental realms, it's the labeling that seems to stick, defining individuals as mentally or physically challenged, handicapped, or, in more delicate terms, unique.
Many of us haven't taken the opportunity to truly gaze into the eyes of those grappling with mental or physical hurdles, or to peer beyond the surface. Perhaps it's because we shy away from what doesn't fit into our perception of normalcy. I've frequently found myself contemplating how such individuals might perceive me in return.
Art Moreno Jr., Exhibit Photographer
"Mentes Hermosas" (Beautiful Minds) is a poignant portrait exhibit that I meticulously captured, showcasing a remarkable community at a lesser-known mental facility in Juárez, Mexico. Through this exhibit, I aim to illuminate a facet of humanity often relegated to the shadows of society, forgotten and overlooked. Accompanying each portrait is the personal story of the individual, a privilege seldom granted. I sincerely hope this exhibit will alter your perception of human vulnerability and its profound impact on us all.
Every portrait within this collection was taken on-site at Visión En Acción Misión Rescate A.C. in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico. For the past 28 years, Vision in Action has served as a sanctuary for individuals grappling with neurological and mental conditions. The demands placed on those battling mental illness can be overwhelming and unceasing, and this sanctuary provides unwavering support and care to this vulnerable population daily.
In curating this exhibit, Pastor Jose Antonio Galvan, the founder of the sanctuary, alongside his assistant Josue, a former patient turned nurse, compassionately assisted each individual in finding a comfortable pose, reassuring them that my presence was solely to capture their essence through photography. Once at ease, each subject freely expressed themselves, resulting in portraits brimming with genuine emotion and authenticity.
This exhibit aims to spotlight the precious lives portrayed here and urges crucial support through financial contributions. As you immerse yourself in the stories of these resilient individuals—our fellow members of humanity—may you not only gain a deeper understanding of the delicate nature of human life but also let yourself be deeply touched by the powerful narratives that unfold within this exhibition.