2021 Estamos Aquí (We Are Here) Photo Exhibition
BALLSTON SPA — Visión: A photographic window into the lives of immigrant workers at the backstretch is being brought to life at local businesses throughout the area through the month of August. The Estamos Aquí (We Are Here) exhibit is a chance for Latino immigrants to share their experiences living in Saratoga, while simultaneously raising crucial funds for the Immigrant Services Program at LifeWorks Community Action.
Historically, the Visión event would take place annually in August with a reception on the 1863 Patio located at the Saratoga Race Course. However, due to the pandemic, the organization was forced to take a socially-distant, COVID-safe approach. Last year, the event took place virtually with the launch of the Estamos Aquí website, which features collections of work from the exhibits of years prior. This year, the 14th annual event is community-wide. Throughout August, the black-and-white photographs of Saratoga’s immigrant artists will hang within some of Saratoga County’s restaurants and storefronts.
“We feel so honored to be a part of this event,” said Dayanis Bowie, owner of DB Trends in Ballston Spa, “As an immigrant, I’m so happy and proud to support our immigrant community, their dreams, their passion, and their hard work. Being able to help make a difference for my Latino community is important to me!”
Photos of the exhibit will be on display through the end of August at the following locations: DB Trends, Iron Roost, Sage Wine and Spirits, Nani’s Indian Kitchen, MochaLisa’s Caffè, Northshire Bookstore, Dark Horse Mercantile and Impressions of Saratoga. Large prints, 5×7 matted prints and five-pack notecards can be purchased through the Estamos Aqui website at www.estamosaquisaratoga.com/store. All proceeds will support the Latino Community Advocacy Program at LifeWorks and the artists themselves.
LifeWorks Community Action (formerly Saratoga County EOC) is a local nonprofit organization dedicated to providing access to programs that fulfill our neighbors’ immediate needs. To learn more visit www.lifeworksaction.org.