Orlando Magic
Orlando, Florida — the tourism capital of the Southeast — is a city suspended between fantasy and reality. While millions flock to its gates chasing manufactured magic, 320,000 locals carry on with normal lives. The increasing adverse effects of tourism have damaged not only the land, but also the culture of this city. What happens when a place becomes more valuable as an illusion than as a home? Who are we in comparison to a character? Who are we when erasure is disguised as cultural exchange? Locals have become commodities as governing bodies have continuously prioritized visitors.
Yet at the same time, Orlando has a widely unique dynamic. A combination of the weather, tourism, romanticization, poverty crisis, and strong political clash oddly enough provide a sense of home and belonging. Comfort lies in the overlooked whimsy of the hot pavement, roaring crowds, and fading neon. While there is much to criticize, there is equally as much to be proud of. Amongst the over-commercialization, there is a vibrant community that breathes charm into the city.
Through all of this the sun still rises, the grass is still green, and we still have a best friend; Someone to appreciate amongst this beautiful plagued land.
To gossip with over the hum of a roller coaster.
To buy ice cream with, just for it to melt.
To share our whispered dreams of escape.
To love while we watch our city fade.
CREATIVE DIRECTION: ROEN MEDINA
PHOTOGRAPHY: ROEN MEDINA, JORDAN TOMASELLO, TERESE CORBIN
EDITING: ROEN MEDINA, JORDAN TOMASELLO
MODELING: KATARINA TOMAZ, GABRIELA GONZALEZ
STYLING: ROEN MEDINA, KATARINA TOMAZ
BEAUTY: KATARINA TOMAZ, GABRIELA GONZALEZ