honorable mention
riel Sturchio Bianca Sturchio united states
title
Chasing Light
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entry description
Chasing Light is an ongoing (circa 2011) collaborative medium format color film photography project between twin siblings Bianca and riel Sturchio. Chasing Light embodies the belief that representation, visibility, autonomy, and truth-telling can promote personal empowerment, and open up access to spaces that foster meaningful dialogue and community. Bianca and riel utilize photography as a means to delve into the complications of their respective queer identities and health-related challenges. Bianca and riel were both born premature with severely delayed developmental milestones, which doctors later diagnosed as cerebral palsy (CP). With the help of rigorous physical therapy and medical interventions, riel and Bianca learned how to adapt to each of their bodies, though, riel’s body endured less trauma and therefore responded more rapidly to therapy. Currently, riel’s CP remains nearly undetectable, while Bianca lives with the physical and social consequences of her visible disabilities.about the photographer
riel Sturchio is a multimedia artist who was born in Portland, Maine and currently resides in Austin, TX. riel received an MFA from the University of Austin, Texas (2018), and a BFA in Photography from the Maine College of Art (2012). riel’s practice extends through poetry, photography, design, sound, videography, and book-making. riel’s work revolves around the body, queer identity, language, and vulnerability. Currently, riel works in the Photography + Extended Media, and English departments at the University of Texas at Austin. riel has been supported by organizations such as the John Anson Kittredge Fund, The Maine Arts Commission, The Alexia Foundation, and the Andy Warhol Foundation regranting program through SPACE Gallery.back to gallery
