Biography
Based in Minneapolis, Nazara Matos is a professional photographer, mother of two, swing dancer, and devoted community advocate. With a degree in Studio Arts, she brings both technical expertise and creative vision to her work, which has been showcased in prestigious venues such as Smithsonian Magazine, the Gordon Parks Gallery, Listen 2 Us Studios, and the Minnesota State Fair. Nazara has facilitated photography workshops at Metropolitan State University and Ghost Ranch Retreat Center in New Mexico.
A passionate storyteller, Nazara captures a wide range of subjects, from intimate family moments to the vibrant essence of musicians and professionals nationwide. Her area of expertise is portrait photography. Beyond photography, she is deeply involved in community advocacy, using her talents to uplift and inspire others. A lover of the outdoors, Nazara often draws inspiration from nature, incorporating its beauty into her craft and life.
Project Statement
In the wake of immense loss, communities often find strength in their people—their stories, their connections, and their resilience. This project was born from a desire to shift the narrative surrounding 38th & Chicago Avenue in Minneapolis, also known as George Floyd Square. This intersection is not just a landmark of protest and remembrance; it is also where four neighborhoods—Bancroft, Bryant, Powderhorn, and Central—meet. It is a crossroads of cultures, histories, and lived experiences, home to a vibrant community that deserves to be seen and celebrated.
Made possible through funds from the Minnesota State Arts Board Creative Individuals grant, this project invites participants to incorporate meaningful artifacts from their homes into their portraits—objects that reflect their interests, heritage, and personal histories. Each portrait was taken just outside the subject’s residence, with a neutral background to de-identify specific locations. Subjects were directed to look directly at the camera with a neutral expression, allowing their individuality to shine through as they might be encountered in daily life.
A key part of this project was ensuring it gave back to the community in a meaningful way. Each head of household photographed received a stipend for participating, along with a print of the image on display. Additionally, the opening reception for this exhibition was hosted at Listen 2 Us Studios at George Floyd Square, with food and music provided by neighborhood vendors—reinforcing a sense of community ownership and celebration.
Too often, media portrayals of these neighborhoods focus on violence and division, overshadowing the depth and beauty of the people who live here. My goal is to challenge these narratives by showcasing the individuals who make up this community—people of different backgrounds, experiences, and cultures, all contributing to a shared story of resilience and connection.
