I take photographs to record my travels, particularly the colors and stories of the different people and places I meet. In order to capture the authentic voice of these people and places, I never stage my shots. Instead, I walk. I see. I listen.
Artist Statement
I take photographs to record my travels, particularly the colors and stories of the different people and places I meet. In order to capture the authentic voice of these people and places, I never stage my shots. Instead, I walk. I see. I listen. My feet have taken me through many unseen streets and public transportation has introduced me to many unheard of people. As someone who likes to walk absurd distances, I have found that such a slow way of moving from one place to another allows me to see the everyday, the small things that connect us all around the world. It is my belief that it is in these small wrinkles, bumps, and blemishes of life that I can find the most beautiful subject matter to document.
I like photography because it is a medium that is easily-consumed by all. Many people do not have the privilege to leave their home country and some harbor a fear of foreign travel. I want to share with others the places I have unwrapped and introduce them to the family I have found in complete strangers. I want to discover the voice of the unknown or forgotten places of this world and facilitate their stories. Whether it’s through custom design, teaching, or taking the time to communicate with someone I do not share a common language with, my job as an artist is to empower others.
Artist Bio
Maria Chaverri’s career as an artist took hold at the Maryland Institute College of Art where she earned her BFA in Fiber Arts and a Masters in Professional Studies in Business of Art and Design. Born in the United States to Costa Rican parents, Maria Chaverri grew up in a household that was not entirely one or the other. Her multicultural upbringing, speaking Spanish with family, English with classmates, and traveling across the international borders between her two homes generated her interest in travel from a young age. Never fully an Okie, an American, nor a Costa Rican, travel became a means to the discovery of self.
From 2013 to 2018, she lived in Japan and explored Southeast Asia solo. During this time, Chaverri used photography and writing to capture the stories of the people and places she discovered. Now back in the United States, Chaverri inspires others with beautiful images of foreign places and empowers creative individuals through coaching. Currently, she displays her works as the artist in residence at Rooted Barber Shop, and will continue to share her experiences and works with the Oklahoma community as the first City of Moore’s artist in residence in 2020.
Tree House Blues
Crocodiles
Palmas
Laos
On the Corner
Spices
Hot Summer
Groceries
Red Window
Volcano Taxi
Dipolog Kitchen
Vintage View
Train Sister
Singing Sanddunes
