Maritsa Arteaga texts

Tia Martha's Pilgrimage - In Ecuandureo, Michoacan, each year a group of women dressed in a traditional costume go on a pilgrimage to honor the the Virgen of Guadalupe, in which they perform a traditional dance. They perform the dance until they reach the church. It’s a way of repaying for the miracles they have been blessed with. Featured is my aunt Martha as she gets ready to perform the traditional dance.

Blue Veils - I followed my aunt with the camera as she performed the traditional dance. In the foreground is my aunt Martha and in the background is a girl dressed as the Virgen of Guadalupe. The Virgen of Guadalupe is symbol of why they do this pilgrimage.

Carmen and Ivan - Featured is my cousin Carmen and her son Ivan. I had not seen her in nine years since we were both young teens, and I met her son for the first time. Carmen taught me Ivan’s favorite song. This portrait captures the moment little Ivan finally smiles for the camera as I sing his favorite song.