Jesse Hernandez
- Anna Lilli Garai
- Mar 14
- 1 min read
Jesse Hernandez’s photography brings attention to moments that often go unnoticed. Raised in Inglewood, California, his work is shaped by his Latin heritage and the experiences of his immigrant family. By focusing on the home—a space both familiar and ever-changing—his images capture the subtle tensions and emotions of daily life. Using Polaroid emulsion lifts, Hernandez manipulates the material to add texture and depth to his photographs. In works like "Rooted," the image of a tree during the Los Angeles fires becomes more than a picture; the peeling emulsion mirrors the resilience of nature.
This piece demonstrates how photography can go beyond capturing a scene to revealing the essence of the subject.
In "Ecdysis," Hernandez portrays a moment of family connection. His sister’s hands, frozen in a gesture, symbolize the changing dynamics of family life. The manipulation of the emulsion adds layers of meaning, reflecting the emotional and physical shifts within family relationships.
His work explores the intersection of the physical and emotional, turning the surface of the image into a deeper reflection of personal experiences. Through works like "Untitled" and "Dame Tu Mano," Hernandez highlights the fragility of connection. The textures in his images reflect the delicate nature of family bonds—sometimes broken, sometimes whole, but always present. Each piece becomes a visual diary, turning fleeting moments into lasting examinations of human relationships.
