Lúa Ribeira’s latest photographic project, “Agony in the Garden,” captures the feelings of alienation and uncertainty prevalent among today’s youth. Through features, essays and podcasts, this monthlong series amplifies Ribeira’s work from 2021 through 2023. It showcases his work in beautiful warm climate southern Spanish cities like Madrid, Málaga, Granada, and Almería. The project is inspired by the biblical passage that recounts Jesus’s anguish in the Garden of Gethsemane, reflecting the emotional landscape of young people grappling with the complexities of modern life.
During the course of her project, Ribeira worked intently with youths to produce powerful visual narratives that reflect their stories. Throughout this process, this collaborative approach serves to further dissolve the lines between artist and subject. Moreover, it promotes a deep sense of shared ownership of the resulting artwork. The photographs are mesmerizing, resulting in hipster-prison-punk, dystopian-vibe art. Through their work, they create portraits of a world frozen in time, rooted in the stark and arid terrain of southern Spain. It is against these highly contrasting landscapes that she presents a dramatic counterpoint of loss, alienation, and chaos.
Ribeira’s project further explores how younger generations express their identities and aspirations. Drawing on influences from religious motifs, contemporary painting, and cinema, she crafts a visual language that resonates with her audience. Through narratives and beautiful photography, Ribeira sheds light on the peripheries of these sprawling urban centers. These places are frequently under-appreciated but full of otherwise untold stories.
Agony in the Garden is Ribeira’s second monograph, co-published by Dalpine. This iterative collection traces the evolution of her artistic process. It encourages audiences to participate in an important discussion about the critical challenges that young people today experience. Through her lens, Ribeira sheds light on narratives of suffering and introspection, urging society to acknowledge the profound challenges confronting younger generations.