Select images from Ángel Añazco’s thesis at Parsons the New School for Design photographed in 2017. In the industry, the use of mainly white models is not representative of the diversity that actually exists in the world. I began thinking to myself, “How can I speak my voice?" How can I use my passion for fashion photography to make conscious decisions in my work to address these issues? I wanted to use the language of fashion photography. To address this, I am looking to challenge representation through styling that observes the dynamic between dress and masculinity. What does a location say about an image? Limiting myself to only shooting male models of color, I subvert this issue of misrepresentation and comment on the necessity of inclusion within the fashion world.

The clothing in my images are by young, New York City-based designers that believe in the freedom of expression of identity through clothes. These brands include Theophilio, Homic, and Maison the Faux. They are unisex brands that cater to all genders and make clothes that create a platform to define your identity, on your own terms, providing a platform that is not divided by the social construct of gender. By refocusing the Latino, Black, and Asian male model in the image as a nuanced identity instead of a stereotype, the photos are challenging this system meant to repress men of color and their masculinity.

The men in my images are confront the viewer with their expression and confidence while dressing on their own accord. Some are also vulnerable and sensitive, while others are prideful. Through these alternate representations of men of color, I show that they are not powerless. Their sensitivity and vulnerability presents their strength even more. Through their expression and confidence, they do not hesitate, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender expression or race. Some stare directly at you--strongly and tightly holding the gaze of the audience. Some look fixedly out of the frame. In all, they are demanding that the audience see them, on their own terms. The subjects shifts to a scene of liberation rather than oppression.