Charlie Cordero, a recipient of the $5,000 PhotoVogue Festival Grant, has developed a powerful project documenting the plight of the San Bernardo archipelago, a group of ten islands off Colombia’s Caribbean Coast. The archipelago faces a dire threat: rising sea levels. This phenomenon endangers both the human and animal populations, leading to the erosion of their land and a continuous sense of danger. Cordero’s work goes beyond mere documentation. He urges us to question the status quo, exposing the ecological emergency amplified by unchecked tourism, a further burden on a country already grappling with armed conflict. Through vibrant colors and balanced compositions, he subtly highlights the contradictions existing in this fragile ecosystem, maintaining a hopeful perspective despite the challenges.
The grant awarded to Cordero will be instrumental in furthering his projects and delving deeper into his photographic exploration of urgent issues like those unfolding in ‘Santa Cruz del Islote’. Cordero’s journey with this project began over eight years ago when he first learned about Santa Cruz del Islote. His initial interest stemmed from his work at the local newspaper ‘El Heraldo’ in Barranquilla, where he covered stories about vulnerable communities residing in aquatic ecosystems. His desire to understand the Caribbean through its inhabitants and their narratives led him to this unique island.
Cordero’s journey to Santa Cruz del Islote was not a simple one. The island, with its close-knit community, initially presented challenges for the outsider. However, with each visit, Cordero’s presence became more familiar, and he began to understand the community’s dynamics. He witnessed both personal and professional growth in himself, as well as the transformations within the island and its residents. The initial years of the project became a laboratory for Cordero, allowing him to refine his approach to storytelling and narrative. His work was published in international media, exploring the challenges of living on the world’s most densely populated island.
Over time, Cordero witnessed a disturbing shift on the island. The effects of climate change became increasingly apparent, threatening the very existence of the community. The rising tides presented a growing challenge, impacting their daily lives. In the last two years, Cordero has dedicated himself to researching the impacts of climate change within the San Bernardo archipelago. He has conducted interviews with government officials, environmentalists, and academics, including Karem Acero, a leading researcher on the topic in Colombia.
One of the most impactful experiences for Cordero occurred during the rising tides. These tidal surges, typically occurring between September and December, are becoming more frequent due to climate change, posing a constant threat to the islanders. The increased water levels significantly disrupt daily life, forcing the community to constantly contend with the encroaching waters. In the past year, the water levels reached unprecedented heights, causing significant damage and disruption. Cordero’s work captures the stark reality of these events, showcasing the resilience of the islanders and the challenges they face.
Despite the beauty of the landscape and the resilience of its people, Cordero believes it is crucial to highlight the threats they face. The island is largely abandoned by the state, leaving the community vulnerable to the combined effects of climate change and uncontrolled tourism. Cordero’s project aims to raise awareness about these threats through media dissemination and exhibitions. He stresses the importance of showcasing those working to protect these ecosystems, highlighting the need for support and resources to combat these complex challenges.
Cordero’s commitment goes beyond simply capturing images. He recognizes the importance of environmental education, particularly for the young people on the island who may be unaware of the threats they face. Through workshops and educational initiatives, he aims to empower them with knowledge and understanding. He believes photography is a powerful tool for countering climate change denial and misinformation, highlighting solutions and inspiring activism. His work serves as a testament to the transformative power of photography, allowing him to raise awareness and inspire action in combating the global climate crisis.
