'Toronto has always had kings' is a series commissioned by the F-YOU Project created to honour the young kings in our city who appreciate wisdom, knowledge, experience and truth from the men who walked the streets before them.
We shot these portraits in a 2-hour time span on a very rainy day in Toronto one day before I was to fly to Indonesia for an assignment. Although the portraits were quick I was able to get a quick sense of each of these individuals as soon as they sat for me. Every one of these men is contributing so much positivity to this planet through their work and being, and it was my pleasure and honour to capture their beauty in this series.
The series was recently used in an exhibit to help launch the book, "Manhood." This book is "the third in a series of books featuring words and experiences on loss, death, trauma, and restoration. We examine the male identity in all its forms and permutations. This book and audio supplement is empowering, insightful, honest, and exemplary of the human spirit through communication. Storytelling is the oldest form of generational communication, and the stories within are submitted in the hopes of making a difference."
The F-YOU Project "is a movement that started after rape-survivor Tara Muldoon did not find justice in the justice system. After realizing forgiveness would have to come from within, she created a platform for youth and young adults to speak openly about what it means to forgive."
Needless to say I've been incredibly proud to be part of this project.