David Hanes-González, the Mexican-American documentary photographer from Chicago and the World Boxing Council (WBC), presents the project No Te Dejes about love, faith and resilience that defines the boxing community of CDMX and Edomex. This exhibition consists of 28 photographs that portray boxers in various fights and boxing gyms.
The exhibition has been open to the public from September 23 and it will come to an end this October 21 at Dichroic House, located at Manuel María Contreras #66, Colonia San Rafael.
The title of the exhibition is inspired by a constant expression in boxing, a phrase that echoes in the corners of the rings during fights. “This expression is not only relevant in boxing, it is also a powerful metaphor for life. Every day is a fight to improve yourself and be a better person. No Te Dejes perfectly encapsulates the essence of my exhibition,” says David.
Over the years, Mexico has established itself as a power house in this sport, with a record of more than 200 world champions in various weight categories. The distinctive style of Mexican boxers is characterized by their aggressiveness and sheer courage plus grit in the ring, as well as their ability to face any opponent without fear.
David’s passion for the Mexican boxing style merged with his own participation in the sport, prompting him to embark on a two-year documentation project. During this time, he had the opportunity to earn the respect of the community and the support of the WBC. This allowed him to document prominent boxers, including Salvador “Pelón” Juárez, Alan “Rey David” Picasso, amateur boxer Esmer Falcón, unified champion Yesica Nery Plata, and hall of fame trainer Ignacio “Nacho” Beristáin, in various fights and boxing gyms, including emblematic places such as La Merced, Tepito, Tránsito, Tacubaya, Chimalhuacán, Granjas México, San Juan de Aragón, among others.
“No Te Dejes brings a unique perspective to the world of boxing and photography, as it captures the true essence of this sport and the sacrifice, passion and spirit of the boxers. I am very happy to be part of this exhibition and that people can appreciate what we experience in boxing gyms and in our own lives,” adds Salvador “Pelón” Juárez.
David states that his goal with this exhibition is for people to understand that in Mexico, boxing is not just a sport; It is a religion and a lifestyle incomparable to any other discipline. “To get into a ring requires guts and a warrior spirit that lives in the essence of the Mexican people, a tradition that is nourished by Mexican honor and pride. Mexican fighters have inspiring life stories and are some of the best examples of love, faith and resilience, both inside and outside the ring,” the photographer mentions.
The exhibition will be accompanied by various activities at Dichroic House, a multidisciplinary space that will welcome boxing enthusiasts and the photography community of CDMX. The weekly program includes:
● Boxing training: On October 7 at 10 am, those interested will be able to learn the techniques and secrets of this exciting sport from a professional boxer.
● Boxing talk: October 14 at 6 p.m. A boxing talk will be offered that will allow you to learn about the dedication and discipline required to achieve success in the world of boxing from coaches and professional boxers.
● Boxing photography workshop: On October 18 and 20, a workshop will be held where participants can learn how to take photographs both in the classroom and in a professional fight.
● Closing of the exhibition: On October 21, the exhibition will say goodbye with a party enlivened by music from DJs and live artists.
For more details on these activities and the exhibition in general, visit David Hanes-Gonzalez’s website and social media.
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