The Salton Sea, once a thriving vacation destination and ecosystem, has now become a symbol of environmental neglect and decay. This work aims to document the current state of the sea and its surrounding communities, capturing the beauty and tragedy of this forgotten place.
Through images of the cracked and dried-up lakebeds, abandoned resorts, and the resilient wildlife that still call the area home, I aim to give a visual representation of the impact of human intervention on the natural world while documenting the stories of the people who live and work in this area, capturing the resilience, creativity and freedom of a community that has chosen to live outside of mainstream society. From the makeshift homes and rusted relics of the past, to the vibrant art and music scene that has emerged in recent years, my photographs aim to give a visual representation of the complexities of life in this area.
Through this project, I hope to shine a light on the beauty and humanity of this often-overlooked community and to encourage a deeper understanding of the alternative ways of living, the human desire for freedom and the impact of the choices we make on the way we live our lives. I hope that this project will also raise awareness about the need for conservation and responsible resource management, and to encourage a deeper understanding and appreciation for the delicate balance of our environment.
