Artist Statement
This photograph captures what I came to understand as the true wealth of Mota Fofalia. In a place with few material resources, community was not just present - it was everything. These boys, arms slung around each other, smiling without hesitation, reflect a kind of belonging that doesn’t depend on circumstance. During my eight weeks there, I realized that while so much was limited, connection was abundant - and it was enough.
Recommended Citation
Richardson, Elena L.
(2026)
"Side by Side,"
be Still: Vol. 11, Article 13.
Available at:
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/bestill/vol11/iss1/13
ORCID ID
0009-0003-1934-1163
ResearcherID
PXY-3756-2026
Included in
Creative Writing Commons, Fine Arts Commons, Medical Humanities Commons, Photography Commons
About the Artist
Elena Richardson is a third year medical student interested in pursuing a career in obstetrics and gynecology. Prior to medical school, she attended Southern Illinois University. Her upbringing in the rural midwest, in combination with her latin heritage, has fueled a passion for advocating for underserved populations -- both within the scope of medicine as well as outside of it. She enjoys photography, cooking, music, reading, travel, and spending time outdoors.