Railroad avenue was never about a street, but rather the life that inhabited it.
This project is my homage to those currently living on or around Railroad Avenue in Bellingham, Washington.
This is an ongoing series, where I seek to capture and explore the adversity and triumphs of homelessness in day-to-day life.
What began as final for a class, became an exploration into what life looks like for those facing houslessness in Whatcom County. Through a series of interviews, countless conversations, and many outtakes, came Railroad Ave.
Many thanks to the voices and faces who helped me make this project possible.
Polly Gorte sits next to Ritual Records in Bellingham, Wash., on March, 4, 2024.
Sebastian Giordan and Cryer play a duet outside The Horseshoe Café in Bellingham, Wash., March 2, 2024.
Michael soaks in the sun in Bellingham Wash., on March, 6, 2024.
Parneet and Abigail from Bellingham Downtown Response Team respond to an overdose behind Ritual Records in Bellingham, Wash., March. 2, 2024.
Polly Gorte points out her favorite ring behind Red Rum bar in Bellingham, Wash., on Feb. 13, 2024. “Back when I was in Tacoma, I traded a cigarette for this ring,” Gorte said.
Billy King stands next to AB Crepes in Bellingham, Wash., on Feb. 28, 2024. King often uses this doorway for shelter.
Floyd stands outside Red Rum bar in Bellingham, Wash., on March, 2. 2024. “I’m from Bend, Oregon,” said Floyd. “But I like it here.”
Dorsay and Michael enjoy the last glimpse of sun before dusk on the corner of Magnolia and Railroad Ave. in Bellingham; Wash.; Feb. 24; 2024.
A person smokes behind Red Rum Bar in Bellingham; Wash.; on March; 2; 2024.
Michael shares his contact information from a notebook in Bellingham, Wash., March, 6, 2024