Devyn Nuñez
Invisible Hands, Resilient Hearts, 2024
Invisible Hands, Resilient Hearts is an ongoing photography series dedicated to the custodians of Rutgers University-Newark. This project, conceived during my time as Studio Manager for SHINE Portrait Studio, is a heartfelt tribute to the often-overlooked individuals who maintain our campus. Since my student days in 2012, I have admired their dedication and, inspired by my own mother’s work in housekeeping, felt a deep appreciation for their contributions.
Photography, for me, is about making people feel valued and seen. In this series, I aimed to highlight the custodians who are essential yet frequently underappreciated. By offering them free portraits, I wanted to provide an opportunity for them to be celebrated and to present themselves as they wish to be seen.
The portraits feature a neutral backdrop and balanced lighting to ensure the focus remains on the subjects. My approach combines simplicity with a touch of glamour, reflecting the personalities and styles of each individual. This style choice was driven by my desire to showcase their unique qualities and to create images that are both elegant and joyful.
The most rewarding aspect of this project has been witnessing my colleagues reveal their personalities beyond their professional roles. It has been gratifying to see them embrace the opportunity to be celebrated. Through this series, I hope to not only honor the custodial team at Rutgers University-Newark but also to acknowledge and elevate all individuals in similar roles who often feel unseen.
