This project marked a turning point in Maria’s life, inspiring her transition from a traditional high school to an arts-focused charter school. The images capture a sense of nostalgia, reflecting the complexities of leaving behind a space that held both pain and comfort. Through self-portraiture, Maria explores themes of escape and self-discovery, embodying her journey to find new paths forward.

One piece from this series, Weighing on Me, was exhibited at the Pérez Art Museum Miami and earned a Silver Key in the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards for Individual Photography. Maria’s work has also been recognized with a “SCAD Challenge” Scholarship, awarded by the Savannah College of Art and Design.