An ongoing visual anthropology project documenting communities along the Magdalena River in Colombia. Through interviews and photography, I explore how ecological change is affecting the livelihoods and family structures of its fishing communities, and how they are adapting to sustain their way of life. 

My process has been building trust with the communities so that I may sincerely understand and portray the dynamics at play. I have been working with a local contact as a fixer who has facilitated introductions and ensured my time there has been ethical and respectful. Their access has allowed me to stay in the homes and towns of the Magdalena’s fishing communities. Making it possible to engage directly with people and places in a way that honors the perspectives of those living along the river. 

Angel, Puerto Wilches. After more than 30 years as a fisherman he left because the life had become too difficult.

Ciénagas de Barrancabermeja. Drying banks of the Ciénagas de Barrancabermeja.

Ciénagas de Barrancabermeja. One of the few women who fishes to sustain their family. She explained that the Bocachico fish is shrinking in size due to overfishing, but overfishing is unavoidable since the Bocachico remains the most vital source of income.

Campo Duro. An example of the communities along the Magdalena River, made up of a few shacks where fishermen and their families live. 

Shelly, Santo Domingo, Cesar. Fishing is the main source of income in this town. However, since Shelly’s family cannot cannot afford to buy a boat, they sustain themselves through weaving.  

Shelly at home. Shelly makes original crafts made from mat palm, dyed using achote, mud, and aniline, which she sells at a local market.

Chimchagua. A multigenerational family prepare vegetables for sale at the market.

Chimichagua. People wait for the next ferry upriver to Barrancabermeja and other riverine communities.

Hernández, Campo Duro.  A fisherman who laments the disappearance of the manatees that once occupied the waters he swam as a boy.

Puerto Wilches. Burning trash along the Magdalena River.