Through My Lens:

Unveiling the Raw Truth

"In the depths of pain, art becomes the light that guides us through; it transforms our scars into stories and our struggles into strength, reminding us that even in the darkest moments, creation is a powerful act of perseverance." - Joseph Wankelman

The Photographic Journey of Joseph Wankelman

Black and white photography holds a special place in my heart. There’s a purity in the contrast, a starkness that mirrors the complexities of life. In the shadows and light, I found a way to convey the depth of human emotion. I was drawn to the eyes of the homeless, those who lived on the fringes of society, whose stories were often ignored or dismissed. Through my lens, I searched for the flickers of hope, the remnants of joy, and the shadows of sorrow in their eyes. I wasn’t just taking pictures—I was listening, trying to understand what made them happy, what gave them strength in the face of adversity.

During one of the darkest times in my life, I found myself drawn to protests. My anger, my disillusionment with the world’s cruelty, spilled over into my photography. Each shot was a cry of rage, a desperate attempt to make sense of the pain I felt. The images from that period are raw, unfiltered, a testament to my internal struggle. They are as much a reflection of the world’s injustice as they are of my own battle to express the torment that words couldn’t convey.

From a young age, I’ve been captivated by the unspoken stories that lie within a person’s eyes. There’s a depth there, a silent narrative that speaks of experiences, emotions, and the soul's raw truth. My journey into photography began not as a hobby, but as a necessity—a way to understand and connect with the world around me when words failed.

The camera became my sanctuary, a lens through which I could view a world that often felt overwhelming and cruel. It became my voice, capturing moments and emotions that I couldn’t articulate. When the pain inside me seemed too much to bear, photography was there, providing a silent release, a way to express what was trapped within.

But life has a way of revealing its beauty, even in the midst of despair. As I began to heal, I found myself looking for that beauty, and it was in the landscape that I rediscovered it. My landscape photography is not just about capturing scenes; it’s a testament to my journey back to finding peace. Each image reflects a moment of clarity, a recognition that there is still beauty in the world, and that it’s worth fighting for.Photography is more than just a passion for me—it’s my lifeline. It’s the medium through which I connect with others, share their stories, and reveal my own. My work is a journey of emotions, from the depths of despair to the heights of hope, all captured in the frames of my camera. Through my lens, I invite you to see the world as I do—not just as it is, but as it feels.