Get to Know Lenin
"Do not be arrogant because of your knowledge, but confer with the ignorant as with the wise. The limits of art have never been set, and no artist's skills are ever complete."
—Ptahhotep, circa 2350 BCE
I am a writer, artist, philosopher, and photographer, each role informing and enriching the others in my creative journey. With a BA in Philosophy from UC Berkeley and an ongoing MA at San Francisco State University, I weave philosophical inquiry into every facet of my work, exploring the profound questions of human existence through various mediums.
My journey in photography began in childhood, captivated by the timeless allure of black-and-white film. This early fascination continues to influence my approach, as I capture moments that speak volumes without uttering a word. My diverse portfolio includes street photography, landscapes, and nature, each image a testament to my ability to uncover the extraordinary within the everyday.
As a writer, I craft short stories, research papers, essays, and philosophical works, using language to illuminate the complexities and beauty of the human condition. My art and writing intersect, creating a rich tapestry of visual and verbal narratives that invite others to see the world through my lens and my pen.
This interdisciplinary approach allows me to explore and express the nuances of life, drawing connections between the seen and the unseen, the spoken and the unspoken. Through my work, I aim to inspire and provoke thought, offering fresh perspectives on the familiar and the unknown.
SFMOMA
Standing With Rothko
At SF MoMA, a woman stands engrossed by Mark Rothko's "No. 14." Captured on January 13, 2019, this moment reflects the silent conversation between viewer and painting.
View From The Top
Zoomed out to show his solitary figure against the expansive backdrop of the museum—highlights the unique interplay of observation and anonymity in a space dedicated to art.
At The Lookout
At SF MoMA, a man gazes down from the top-floor balcony, his eyes sweeping over the bustling scene below. This pair of images—one a close-up capturing his contemplative expression.
México
Head of Quetzalcoatl
This serpent head at the corner of José María Pino Suárez and República del Salvador in Mexico City is a remnant of ancient Tenochtitlan, the Mexica (Aztec) capital.
Ocelotl-Cuauhxicalli
The Ocelotl-Cuauhxicalli, located in the Museo Nacional de Antropología in Mexico City, is a notable Aztec artifact used to hold the hearts of sacrificial victims.
Tlaloc
Known for his control over storms, fertility, and agriculture, Tlaloc's origins trace back to earlier civilizations like the Olmecs and Mayans, where he was revered under different names and forms.
Île-de-France
Outside Place du Panthéon
The Panthéon, originally a church and now a mausoleum, houses the remains of France's most distinguished citizens.
View of Place du Panthéon
Looking down the street at the majestic facade of the Place du Panthéon, this view captures the grandeur and historic significance of one of Paris's most iconic landmarks.
Musée d'Orsay's Clock Tower
Visitors at the Musée d'Orsay pause to gaze out from the iconic clock tower, capturing a moment where history and modernity meet.
New York City
The Face of Freedom
This close-up view of the Statue of Liberty captures the iconic face that has welcomed countless newcomers to America's shores.
Empire State
From atop the Empire State Building, the New York City skyline unfolds in a stunning panorama, featuring the iconic Flatiron Building and the soaring One World Trade Center.
Life on the Brooklyn Bridge
A walk across the Brooklyn Bridge offers a unique view of New York City, blending historic charm with bustling energy.
Art
Interdimensional Reflections
This artwork captures the essence of encountering the unknown, blending personal introspection with the intrigue of interdimensional possibilities.
Dreamtime Visions: A Self-Portrait
This self-portrait sketch is inspired by Aboriginal Dreamtime, capturing the spiritual and mythical connections to the land and ancestors.
A Rothko-Inspired Self-Portrait
A morning self-portrait sketch captures my hand in the act of drawing a square, inspired by Rothko's minimalist approach.
Abstract North-Indio Expressionism
Exploring abstract expressionism in a self-portrait done in Indio, California.
F#@k Technology
Echoing the message from the visitors at the Ariel School encounter "Technology is advancing too fast, and humans must take better care of the Earth".
Moving Away
Morning self portrait sketch of my feet before moving away back to The Bay Area from The Coachella Valley Desert in Indio, California where I grew up.
En El Pajarete
A sketch remembering the tradition of pajaretes. Also our shared existence with nature and animals expressing gratitude for the blessings the offer us, in this case the milk from a cow.
An Afternoon Sketch
Exploring impressionist styles of expression in a sunset reflecting on water with a sailboat aloof.
A Cubist Self-Portrait
A self-portrait exploring cubist style of expressionism.
Writings
"I explore the contrasting views on detachment in classical Chinese philosophy, focusing on Confucianism and Chuang Tzu. This in-depth analysis delves into the first and second-order properties of the mind, offering a nuanced understanding of self and tranquility."
Examine the impact of technology in low-income schools. This critical analysis highlights the challenges and transformations within educational environments, questioning whether technology truly addresses the deeper human dimensions of learning.
In my articles for The Daily Californian, I explore key issues impacting the Berkeley community, from the contentious debates over urban development to the implications of technology integration in education. Additionally, I delve into groundbreaking scientific advancements like CRISPR, examining their local and global implications. These pieces highlight the diverse perspectives and challenges shaping the city’s landscape, offering readers a thoughtful examination of local dynamics and innovations.