Tony Chirinos, “Cocks”
These photographs depict what I called a double portrait of fighting cocks. At first gaze you see a rooster who embodies personality and at the same time a stage is apparent which references the world that surrounds it. Using my camera as an ambassador, I am able to explore the tradition of cock fighting, learn about the handling of roosters, and socially integrate myself in this community.
My interest in this project is to produce images that respect the cultural tradition of San Andrés without imposing a westernised ideology concerning the cock fighting practice. This attitude allows me to pay close attention to the birds, the bird handlers and the ritual of bird grooming. In this way, I am uncovering through a visual understanding the meaning of this sub-culture, a personally important part of my Hispanic background.
Watch more on his site www.tonychirinos.com
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