Finding John Swaii

I spent time in Time Square, New York City, working on this project alongside Bronx resident and artist John Swaii. Before meeting him, I became a fan of his music, so I offered to do a free artistic photoshoot in exchange for conversation and experience. When I first met John Swaii, he struck me as being so warm and genuine that I could immediately sense his good nature. We discussed music, but more significantly his upbringing and life, whilst we were shooting the photographs. I was able to understand his actual goals and what he was discovering in his music as he revealed more about himself. What he actually desired was freedom, the ability to express himself creatively, a place to call his own and as much time as possible to spend with his kid. All of this knowledge helped me see a building scaffolding that turned into a walkway as we moved past Time Square. Since we were halfway through, I halted right away and pointed for John Swaii to stand in front of a high-up mirror while I ascended the outer scaffolding, which was as high as the walk sign. I was being honked at by cars, people were worried, but I had my opportunity. The final image is a composition of John Swaii who appears to be seeking for help but then realizes he's all the help he needs.