"Deredia’s Spheres: Capturing His Art and Soul in Mexico City"

Living in Mexico City, I was swept into its vibrant pulse of museums and art, each corner whispering stories. One unforgettable stop was Jorge Jiménez Martinez’s—“Deredia’s”—exhibit along Paseo de La Reforma. His sculptures, alive with mystery, hummed like a cosmic conversation, their curves paired with a symphony that stirred the air. Shaped by Carrara’s Academy and Florence’s Renaissance, Deredia’s work, inspired by Costa Rica’s ancient Boruca spheres, explores life, womanhood, and creation’s quiet power. His art feels timeless, bold, soulful. My photos—simple attempts to catch their textured marble under Mexico City’s sun—frame their grandeur against the urban pulse. Wide shots hold their scale; close-ups trace shadows, earthy ochres meeting city grays. I hope they echo the awe I felt standing there, camera in hand. If Deredia sees these, I hope they carry a spark of his vision. Wander through my blog’s images, feel those ancient orbs, and lose yourself in their endless story.

For a bit more on the man behind the spheres: Jorge Jiménez Deredia, Costa Rican sculptor born 1954, crafts monumental bronze and marble works exploring life’s evolution, motherhood, and cosmic unity. Influenced by Renaissance masters and Costa Rica’s pre-Columbian Boruca spheres, his organic forms—spheres, wombs, breasts—symbolize sensuality, nature’s continuity, and human “Being.” Exhibitions span 16 countries, from public installations to museums. Latest: “El Viaje de la Vida” in Benidorm, Spain (March 2024–2025), featuring monumental sculptures on life’s journey. Ongoing “La Ruta de la Paz” project embodies his philosophical vision.

When a piece of art stops me in my tracks, I feel its pull deep in my chest, like it’s whispering just to me. But sometimes, I hesitate to raise my camera. It feels like stealing, like I need the artist’s nod to capture their soul’s work. Then I pause and think: they placed this sculpture in the open, on a bustling street where cars kick up dust and birds perch without care. It’s meant to be seen, to spark wonder for anyone passing by. I believe it’s okay to photograph public art if you honor the artist’s spirit and intent. My photos aren’t about profit or claiming their vision as mine—they’re about freezing a moment of awe, a quiet nod to the beauty they’ve shared.

Take Jorge Jiménez Deredia’s sculptures, those massive spheres in Mexico City. They stood bold under the sun, inviting every glance. My lens became a way to hold onto that feeling, not to take from him but to carry his story forward. Each shot—wide to catch their scale, close to trace their curves—tries to echo the life he carved. If you’re ever torn about snapping a photo, ask yourself: am I respecting the art’s heart? If the answer’s yes, click away. Check out my blog to see how I captured Deredia’s work and share in that wonder.

Rapa Nui at Fifty, Mysteries of Stone

“Letting childhood dreams sit too long turns them into regret. So go.”

As a child, going to the school library was one of the things I truly looked forward to. Not only did we get some “alone” time, we were handed the keys to the universe. National Geographic magazines, encyclopedias, and rows of old musty books were each a ticket to far flung places. One of those places was Easter Island (Rapa Nui), with the mystery of the Moai and the big questions that trailed them. Who moved these giants, and why? Aliens? Not a chance.

I always dreamed of traveling to Rapa Nui to see the Moai in person. It was a dream I didn’t want to leave unfulfilled. I once asked ChatGPT about unfulfilled childhood dreams, and it gave me a poetic answer, but the short version is simple: don’t wait.

So I didn’t. With my wife’s blessing, I traveled from Mexico City to Rapa Nui for my 50th birthday. As with other trips, I read up before I went. What I found was a heartbreaking story: a proud people pushed off their lands, held as prisoners on their own island, and treated miserably in the name of “prosperity and progress.” The island’s story has all the makings of a saga: the arrival of the Rapa Nui, a murdered king, government cover ups, and daring escapes. Their fight for self determination is real and ongoing. If you venture there, be mindful and respect the land you walk on.

I was grateful to visit Rapa Nui, to see this treasure firsthand, and to spend time with these proud people.

Jacob Roggeveen and his crew made the first recorded European landfall on Rapa Nui on Easter Sunday, April 5, 1722. He got there after months at sea in cramped, hazardous conditions; I arrived in hours, in a quiet modern airplane cabin with warm meals and a couple of movies. Same Pacific, different century.

When you go, not if but when, bring everything you will need. You will literally be in the middle of nowhere. Of the things you must bring, pack an open mind, comfortable shoes, and rain gear. I walked everywhere: feet on pavement, sun beating down on my balding head, no bugs, no traffic, just a herd of wild horses and a bull with questionable intentions (story for another day).

When you arrive, you will purchase your national park pass at the airport. Access to several of the most popular sites is limited to one visit per stay, and rangers will check your ticket before you enter. Do not try to game the system; hefty fines and expulsion are likely. Remember, Rapa Nui is a photographer’s destination. You will likely be one of several dozen serious photographers on the island, many on tours or workshops, most having paid a pretty penny to be there. Be courteous and patient. Tripod space is limited, especially at the classic viewpoints. The early bird will definitely get the shot.

During my visit, I noticed most tourists stick to the vacation routine: breakfast, tour, lunch, tour, dinner, show, and sleep. Be the early bird. Get up before dawn, save museums and meals for the harsh light hours, rest, then head back out for sunset and the blue hour. I carried the proverbial “kitchen sink” in my camera bag, but truth be told, one fast wide angle lens, one telephoto (70 to 200 mm), and a polarizer or circular ND are probably all you need. A tripod is a must, especially during those magical light hours, but avoid using it on busy trails, and if I remember right, tripods are not allowed at some sites.

Most important, talk to the locals. Take a taxi, chat with your driver, say hello to the old man on the bench, go to the museum and talk to the staff. Ask the taxi driver to take you where not a lot of tourists go, and you will be surprised. Explore responsibly, be sensitive to local politics, and above all be respectful of the culture and the island. And the dogs, yes, the dogs. Dogs and horses are everywhere. Everyone looks after them. They will follow you around, so watch where you leave your shoes. They might steal them.

Lastly, choose your dates with care. Check the festival calendar first, since big celebrations fill rooms fast. Look at cruise ship schedules as well, because a ship in port can make the island feel crowded and tours will book up. Plan your lodging early and build a little flex into your itinerary. I spent eight days on the island, which was plenty. Check the forecast, then pack for rain anyway. Showers come and go without much warning and they will soak you and your gear. Bring a light shell, quick dry layers, a cover for your camera, and a towel in the bag. Patience helps too. On Rapa Nui, the weather turns, the crowds ebb, and the good light still shows up.

canyon de chelly National Monument

According to Navajo legend, the powerful spirit known as Spider-Woman created the world by weaving the fabric of existence, bringing order and balance to the universe. The Navajo people hold deep reverence for Spider Woman, honoring her teachings on balance, harmony, and the importance of living in connection with nature.

Spider Rock, situated in Canyon de Chelly, serves as a sacred site where the spirit of Spider Woman is believed to reside, connecting visitors with the divine and deepening their understanding of Navajo culture. The canyon holds great spiritual significance, with ancient cliff dwellings and petroglyphs that tell the stories of Navajo ancestors. It stands as a testament to the rich history and traditions of the Navajo people.

Walking through Canyon de Chelly, you’ll see the intricate patterns and designs the ancestors wove into the rocks and cliff faces. These markings are not random—they represent the fabric of reality, woven by the hands of Spider-Woman herself. The cliff dwellings are a testament to the Navajo Nation’s strength and tenacity, helping them endure hardship and survive against overwhelming odds.

The Navajo people believe that respect, humility, and gratitude are key to living in balance and harmony with the world around us. One day, we may find the balance and harmony their ancestors taught them to weave into the fabric of existence.

Understanding the profound significance of Canyon de Chelly makes the experience of visiting it all the more powerful. Here’s what I learned from my own time there.

I visited in late October. The weather was pleasant, with a slight chill in the morning, but not too hot once the day got underway. It’s Arizona, so it should go without saying: hydrate, wear a hat, and apply sunscreen. Comfortable footwear and light-colored clothing will help keep you cool. The self-guided tours along the rim are well worth taking, as they offer great views of the cliff dwellings from above and showcase the grandeur of the canyon. I recommend planning to spend at least four full days at the Canyon—this gives you ample time to take a guided tour of the canyon floor, which is a must-do! Be sure you and your guide are clear on where you want to go (some locations are not accessible year-round or may be closed), the estimated time it will take, and the associated costs. Bring plenty of water and snacks for you and your guide, and bring some cash. When I visited, vendors at one of the cliff dwellings were selling arts and crafts. After your tour, don’t forget to tip your guide.

Before visiting, check out the National Park Service’s web page on the monument and be sure to secure lodging. The Thunderbird Lodge is a great choice, offering competitive rates and invaluable staff who can help you organize your canyon floor tour. There are other hotels in the area, but the Thunderbird was my choice. You’ll need an authorized guide to visit the canyon floor—DiscoverNavajo.com has a list of tour operators you can contact before traveling to arrange your adventure.

Plan your shots before you go, create a must-see list, and discuss them with your guide. Remember, thousands of photographers have visited the Canyon before you; a quick internet search will reveal many excellent photographs. Bring those you love with you, ask your guide to take you there, take your time, and try to compose something unique.

Getting there can be a challenge. I was living in Tucson and visited the Canyon as part of an extended road trip that took me from Monument Valley through the Navajo territories to Chinle. You can fly into Flagstaff or Phoenix. I would avoid making the trip during monsoon season—not only is the weather harsh, but it can also turn deadly, with most, if not all, of the canyon floor closed for your safety.

When you travel to the Chelly, be kind, be respectful, and get ready to be amazed by the beauty and history that still live within those canyon walls. The magic of the canyon is more than just scenery—it’s a living, breathing story, one you’ll carry long after you leave.