Capturing the Unseen, Finding Authenticity

In my fascinating journey of self-discovery, documentary photography took center stage. It was a passion that had been lingering in the shadows, urging me to capture moments that reflected the essence of a person's process, growth, and presence. These images were like time capsules, accurate depictions of specific moments, from the brand of soda on the table to the tropical plants in the background.

My desire to undertake projects that resonated with authenticity led me to form a team, a "circle" around me, dedicated to capturing the lives of those I encountered. The day-to-day facets of existence and the curiosity expressed on social media with phrases like "day in the life" and "behind the scenes" became my canvas. I took authenticity as a powerful force, which became the guiding light, and I reveled in unexpected moments, even embracing the challenges.

Armed with a strong intuition cultivated since childhood, my curiosity about photography became a beacon guiding my journey. The closure of my car accident case marked a turning point where I embraced the "F*** IT" mentality. I became a "Bexx of all trades," exploring diverse jobs and spaces, and gathering stories that would one day fill the chapters of my 85-year-old self's autobiography.

— Bexx

Part 1 of 3: Unexpected Turns and Academic Intrigues

In the wake of my decision to part ways with the conventional path of university, I found myself navigating the twists and turns of life. A seemingly unsuccessful return to the workforce turned unexpectedly positive when I stumbled into a workplace where understanding and support were the norm. Yet, the limitations of my brain, an intricate labyrinth of its own, made their presence known. In contemplating my next steps, the idea of delving into academics to understand human behaviour through a master's or doctorate program whispered to me.

Cultural Anthropology, a subject that hadn't graced my schedule in over a decade, became the doorway to a new world. Two 1.5-hour classes a week seemed like a manageable commitment, but a familiar overwhelming feeling crept in as the weeks unfolded. Nevertheless, the subject matter, unravelling the foundations of Western anthropology, its origins, founding members, and evolution into its present form, intrigued me.

Unexpectedly, this academic exploration led me into a realm I hadn't foreseen – that of an artist. Raised in an environment where the term "artist" carried a negative connotation, I discovered a creative streak within myself. Rooted in my parents' desire for straightforwardness as first-generation settlers, this aspect of my experience became a secret shared only with my therapist. The intersection of a deep interest in human behaviour, a passion for storytelling, and an innate curiosity about people's journeys became clear. I yearned to uncover individuals' authenticity, tracing their growth from infancy to unique adulthood.

Stay tuned for tomorrow, part 2 of 3…

The Art of Unfiltered Joy: A Glimpse into Bexx Salvidar's World

The Art of Unfiltered Joy: Celebrating Authenticity, One Photograph at a Time

Welcome, fellow adventurers, to a profound exploration of the art of unfiltered joy! As a passionate photographer, I have always been captivated by the beauty of authentic emotions and the power of a single photograph to immortalize fleeting moments of happiness. Join me on this journey as we delve into the magic behind capturing the genuine essence of life's most cherished memories.

Embracing Authenticity: The Gateway to Unfiltered Joy

In a world that often pressures us to conform and wear masks, embracing authenticity becomes a revolutionary act. The art of unfiltered joy is all about finding the courage to be ourselves, let go of inhibitions, and rejoice in our true selves' unique beauty.

In my pursuit of capturing unfiltered joy, I have discovered that true happiness lies not in pretending to be someone we're not but in celebrating the authentic moments that make us who we are. Through my lens, I aim to peel away the layers, revealing the raw emotions that lie at the core of every extraordinary human being.

The Power of a Photograph: Turning Moments into Timeless Memories

A photograph has the incredible ability to transcend time and preserve a single moment for eternity. When a picture captures unfiltered joy, it has the potential to evoke intense emotions, transporting us back to that precise moment in time. Each photograph becomes a gateway to reliving the magic, the laughter, and the love that fills our lives.

But how do we capture unfiltered joy? How do we ensure that the photographs we take genuinely embody the essence of these special moments? The answer lies in finding the balance between observation and participation and cultivating a genuine connection with our subjects.

The Artistic Approach: Unveiling the Essence of Unfiltered Joy

As photographers, we must embrace our role as storytellers and observers of life. We must have a keen eye for the subtle details that often go unnoticed, the tiny gestures and expressions that carry the weight of authentic emotions. Patience becomes our invaluable companion - waiting for that split second when unfiltered joy unfolds before our eyes.

It is important to remember that unfiltered joy doesn't always come in grand gestures or uproarious laughter. Sometimes, it's the gentle smile that lingers on a mother's face as she cradles her newborn or the tranquil expression of contentment that graces a couple's embrace on their wedding day. Unveiling these profound moments requires empathy, sensitivity, and an unwavering dedication to capturing authenticity.

Celebrating Life: Unleashing the Power of Unfiltered Joy

Let us now take a moment to celebrate the power of unfiltered joy. By sharing these photographs, we immortalize the happiness experienced and inspire others to seek and cherish their unique moments of genuine bliss. In a world that often emphasizes the negative, let us stand together as a beacon of light, reminding others to find joy in the simplest things.

So, the next time you find yourself surrounded by unfiltered joy, whether it's your child's laughter, the warmth of a loved one's embrace, or the breathtaking beauty of nature, take a step back and appreciate the magic of the moment. And perhaps, if the opportunity arises, capture that joy through your camera's lens, forever preserving the essence of authenticity.

Let us celebrate the art of unfiltered joy, one photograph at a time. After all, life's most precious memories are meant to be cherished, and what better way to do so than by capturing unfiltered joy in all its breathtaking glory?

-- Bexx

From Anger to Authenticity: Nurturing Emotional Well-being in the Face of Childhood Wounds

Growing up in an angry household leaves lasting scars. As someone who has experienced the impact firsthand, I understand the challenges of healing emotional wounds and nurturing our own well-being. Today, I find myself in a different place—surrounded by my loving partner, children, and a sense of inner strength. But this journey didn't happen by chance; it required setting boundaries, reinforcing them, and being clear on my expectations.

The Legacy of Anger:

In my childhood home, yelling and name-calling were the norm. It wasn't about patriarchal dominance, but rather the constant tension when my father was in a bad mood. My mother, raised in a strict Catholic boarding school, struggled to find her voice and stand up for herself. These dynamics shaped who I am today, and understanding their impact is crucial for our healing journey.

Finding Balance and Boundaries:

With my baby asleep in my arms, my other child with her face on an iPad, and my partner cooking dinner, I'm reminded of the intentional choices that brought us here. Setting boundaries and reinforcing them became vital. Through therapy, anti-depressants, support from friends, and open communication, we held ourselves together despite the challenges life threw at us. And yes, cannabis played a role too—it helped me navigate the complexities and find a sense of peace.

Uncovering Healing Methods:

For me, healing came through cannabis, meditation, therapy, and art. Honest dialogues with my therapist, confidants, and myself were transformative. I needed free time to sit with my emotions, to understand and listen to the messages they held. It wasn't about finding an ultimate truth, but rather discovering my own truth, my inner voice. The more I listened, the more it spoke, and the more it allowed me to express myself authentically.

Peeling Back the Layers:

Growing up in an angry home made it challenging to hear my inner voice. Instead, I relied on my instincts and emotions. But as I embraced mindfulness, engaged in yoga teacher training, and dedicated countless hours to therapy, I began building a relationship with myself. I learned to move past anger and engage in honest conversations that nurtured my vulnerability.

Becoming a Lighthouse:

My journey toward authenticity wasn't easy, but it has given me the confidence to be a beacon of light for others on their own paths. Through nine years of mindfulness practice, self-reflection, and dedication to my personal growth, I now stand firm as a guide for those seeking their own healing and inner peace.

In the end…

Healing childhood wounds and nurturing emotional well-being is a transformative journey. It requires setting boundaries, seeking therapy, engaging in honest dialogues, and embracing practices like meditation and art. By peeling back the layers and building a relationship with ourselves, we can find authenticity and become beacons of light for others. Remember, your journey is unique, and by listening to your inner voice, you can discover the path that leads to healing and emotional well-being.