Andrea Morales

This catalogue showcases Andrea Morales's decade-long exploration of community life and activism in the American South through her impactful photography.

This vibrant catalogue highlights a decade of work by Memphis-based Peruvian-American photographer Andrea Morales (b. 1984). Through her lens, she explores community life and activism in the American South, capturing the essence of her subjects with sensitivity and depth. The book accompanies her first major exhibition at the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, marking a significant moment in her career and serving as the first scholarly publication dedicated to her work.

Andrea Morales reflects on the rich history of activism in Memphis, Tennessee, often considered the unofficial capital of the Mississippi Delta. The title, inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s iconic speech in support of the 1968 Sanitation Workers’ Strike, encapsulates the spirit of the region. Morales’s photography encompasses intimate portraits and documentation of social movements, creating a passionate portrayal of this unique part of the American South.

In her approach, Morales emphasizes building long-term relationships with the communities she photographs, viewing her work as a collaborative effort rather than a detached observation. Her practice is informed by 'movement journalism,' which acknowledges the inherent subjectivity in storytelling. By fostering a human connection and rooting her work in ethical storytelling, Andrea Morales transcends historical injustice to celebrate the vibrancy and joy of the communities she captures, reflecting on identity and the power of visual narratives.