Alice Christine Walker
Artist Statement
Defining “identity” is a universal human struggle. While we are connected to family by blood, many people will go through life seeking out our chosen families. Finding one’s ‘tribe’ or people of like-minded values, interests and vernacular can bring a deeper sense of connection. These images are part of a larger series “Viva Las Vegas” that documents such a group, Rockabillies. People who have distilled the essence of the 1950’s down to its most iconic parts: pin-up fashion, hot rod cars, surf rock music, casinos and easy living. Every year in Nevada, thousands of people flock from all over the world for a weekend filled with live music by the poolside, swimsuit contests, Jive dancing, burlesque, and car shows. As I walked amidst the crowds, photographing with my 1950s Rollieflex, I found myself “part of” versus “separate to”. I realized that “identity” is not a noun, it is a verb manifesting our desires into the real world to create a more profound meaning in our lives.
Alice Christine Walker | Portland, OR