Traces by Yinna Higuera

Traces explores the profound relationship between women and the land, celebrating their resilience and connection to nature. These portraits of rural Ecuadorian women reflect on their essential roles as caretakers of tradition, community and the environment. The images are printed using plant-based photosensitivity on banana leaves, cacao, coffee, vegetables and herbs from their home gardens – plants that not only sustain their daily lives but also symbolise their bond with the earth. The organic materials used in the process echo the cycles of growth and renewal, aligning with the rhythms of their agricultural work. Each portrait becomes a living testament to their strength, identity and the generational wisdom they carry. By merging photography with nature, this series not only documents these women's stories but also honours their interconnectedness with the land, creating a powerful dialogue between art, humanity and the environment.