Artist Statement

The term “late bloomer” gave me a label to describe how I have identified for much of my life. Somewhere in the back of my subconscious, I felt a nagging sense that I was late to something, though that destination was unclear. At times it was milestones I could identify. A first kiss. A first relationship. Other times it was something more nebulous. But always there was a nagging insecurity and pressure, something telling me I wasn’t enough. 

Merriam-Webster defines “late bloomer” as “someone who becomes successful, attractive, etc., at a later time than other people.” But how do we even define success, attractiveness, or any other attribute defined and prized by society? And when do we truly reach that point—after all, aren’t we all constantly in a state of flux, living through new situations, emotions and experiences? 

Late Bloom is an exploration of an identity that many people share and yet define in completely different ways. I was surprised to find that the term extended far beyond sexuality, into conceptions of physicality, friendships, intimacy, career, hobbies, and so much more. 

I depict this identity not as any kind of deficit but as a celebration of discovery. I use vivid color to capture the variety of definitions and emotions associated with each person’s experience, and long exposures to emphasize the state of change that is inseparable from the term “late bloomer.” 

This was a collaborative project with my subjects, who were extremely generous with their time and willingness to share. After each shoot, I asked participants to record a short reflection. Through their portraits and words, I hope my viewers—and listeners—feel the range, depth, and intensity of our collective sense of “lateness”—and of our evolving “bloom.” 

Images in this series are posted with the consent of each subject.