Meet Makani!

 

Born Las Vegas, NM, she was raised both in Cañoncity de las Mañuelitas, NM, and in the local health food store Semilla. Her parents are small business owners who raised her on on a ranchita (small ranch) along with dogs, cats, and horses.

 

Most of Makani’s childhood was spent outside enjoying all that nature offers. In 2022 when the devastating Calf Canyon / Hermit's Peak  wildfire ravaged the land around Las Vegas they lost everything but their memories. However, more than the loss of "stuff" Makani was affected by the loss of the forest. It was a shattering experience for the whole family and now they are working together to rebuild their homes, their lives, and to heal the forest.

 

In her portrait I captured both her exasperation with the recovery process and her calm spirit which is bolstered by her love of nature and her passion for photography.