Can art help change the world?

Throughout history, having one’s portrait painted was a sign of distinction, achievement and affluence. Photography has democratized this process to a large degree, ever so often bringing society face to face with those whose lives and struggles go largely unnoticed.

Aaron Draper, a professor of photography at Chico State University, California, has set off to challenge this societal complacency in his project, Underexposed. Having always felt a connection with the less fortunate, Draper has been photographing homeless people across America in an attempt to change public perceptions of homelessness.

For Draper, photographers have a duty to use their craft to make people feel and think differently. His carefully considered, artful photographs achieve this beautifully by capturing the depth and intricacy of his subjects.

The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Fair Observer’s editorial policy.

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