Tough Reflection starts with one’s self

Hard Things to Swallow is a powerful exploration of the vulnerabilities Black women face, particularly in relation to their emotional, physical, and spiritual health. This series delves into the unspoken burdens Black women carry societal expectations, generational trauma, and the silence often demanded of their pain. Through analog photography and mixed media, the project creates a visual narrative that acknowledges the toll these pressures take on mental and physical well being.

Each image serves as both a reflection and a confrontation, urging viewers to grapple with the discomfort of suppressed truths. By capturing the intimate and raw moments of healing, Hard Things to Swallow highlights the resilience of Black women while advocating for the need to prioritize their health, self-care, and community support. The work invites a broader conversation about the systemic barriers that hinder Black women’s access to health resources and their ability to express vulnerability without judgment.

Through its deeply personal lens, the project honors the strength found in vulnerability and seeks to inspire empathy, understanding, and action.

Location: Baltimore, MD

Model Self Portraits