Photographers Nix and Mariano Cortez met in Kolkata, India in 2012. THE STRING PROJECT began in January 2018 and features photographs from around the world. Their focus has been on creating a project that connects the viewer to the image in a more tangible way, bringing the photograph to life.  In THE STRING PROJECT all of the people hold the same  string, "a visible representation symbolizing an invisible connection."

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The physical string visually represents a connection that cannot be seen with the naked eye. We are all part of this world: we love, we suffer, these are all things that we have in common, that connect us. The project is a reminder that highlights some of the most valuable things in life: respect, hope, peace, compassion, love, empathy, integrity... authentic and genuine interactions between humans.

 

Working on THE STRING PROJECT has taken Chelsea and Mariano to places they never thought they would go, exploring different jobs, lifestyles, and forms of hospitality.

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In 2018 THE STRING PROJECT won one of the largest art competitions in the world, ArtPrize. The couple is currently finishing their documentary, while they keep working with THE STRING PROJECT INC; a nonprofit designed to help many of the people you see in the photographs.  The community centers are diverse helping not only those lacking basic physical needs (including community projects for the hungry, homeless, and abandoned elderly woman and children around the world), but also art programs designed to encourage curiosity and creativity in the youth. 

 

Learn more about THE STRING PROJECT INC, and how you can get involved! It is a 501(c)(3) devoted to helping create space for people to grow, experience safety, and create!