There is a rinse and repeat cycle of manual labor. Up at 6, home at 6, asleep by 9, up at 6, repeat. The daily existence working in a blue collar profession feels Sisyphean at times. This existence in a blue collar setting has been constant in my life since I was 15.
At many points, it seemed like a life of labor was forthcoming for me. With over a decade of experience in various manual labor roles, I have gained a profound understanding of the ethos of blue collar work. Despite feeling like an outsider due to my aspirations beyond the physical demands of these jobs, I have always been grateful to have an able body and to be able complete such grueling work.
The emphasis of working with your hands is a common thread through all of these different roles. It is in this physical struggle that I have found moments of joy and relief, whether it be the first drag of a cigarette at dawn or the catharsis of unlacing my boots at the end of the day.
This body of work draws inspiration from my experiences in manual labor, encompassing the vices, injuries, and stressors that are left off of the job description. With this body of work, I aim to portray the complexities of blue collar life and culture, revealing both its challenges and the quiet moments of triumph that emerge from this demanding yet rewarding job.
By reflecting on my own journey, I hope to illuminate the often overlooked culture of manual labor and the people who dedicate their lives to it. This work is a tribute to the resilience and dignity of those who work with their hands, and it is a personal exploration of how labor has defined me.
