The San Francisco Bay serves as the backdrop for the daily lives of the many residents in the cities of San Francisco, San Jose, and Oakland. It is this familiarity of the scenery that has made the bay be seen as just part of the landscape for many locals.
Documentary photographer and ferry worker Vincent Atos aims to dispel that notion with his exhibition “Bay Reflections: A Ferry Worker’s Lens” which will be on display at the Canessa Gallery, located at 708 Montgomery St. (@ Washington) in San Francisco.
Originally from the Philippines, Vincent Atos has been working on the bay for more than three decades. With a background as a photojournalist in the Philippines during the 1980s, Atos transitioned to working on San Francisco ferry boats in the ‘90s.
“As a documentary photographer working on a ferry on the San Francisco Bay, I am privileged to capture the raw essence of life on the water through my lens. Each day as I navigate the waters and witness the ebb and flow of human interaction, natural beauty, and maritime activities, I am constantly inspired to document the moments that unfold before me,” he shared.
The exhibition showcases Atos’s unique perspective and deep connection to the bay, offering viewers a unique, behind-the-scenes look at the daily maritime work that takes place against one of the most iconic backdrops in the world. From the famous Karl the Fog, to awesome cloud formations, sunsets, and tranquil waters, Atos’s photographs capture the soul of the bay.
“My photographs serve as a visual narrative of the bay, capturing the ever-changing scenery, the changing tides, and the timeless beauty of the waterway. I aim to shed light on the unseen realities of life on the bay, from the bustling energy of the ports to the serene tranquility of the open waters,” he added.
Atos is also a member of Blue Collar Green Water Art and Cultural Collective, a group of San Francisco bay workers advocating for the conservation of wildlife and the environment.
His work goes beyond mere photography and servers as a powerful testament to the importance of preserving the natural beauty and ecological diversity of the San Francisco.
“With each photograph, I invite viewers to embark on a visual journey, to experience the sights, sounds, and the textures of the San Francisco Bay through my eyes. It is my hope that through my photography, I can convey the magic, the wonder, and the enduring spirit of this beloved waterway that has been my inspiration for over three decades,” he said.
The works will be on display at the Canessa Gallery from June 8 to 28. The opening reception will be done on June 8 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and the closing reception will be held on the 28th from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. as well.
Canessa Gallery is open by appointment only. Interested individuals can call (415) 425-3268 or email vincefoto@ gmail.com to arrange a viewing.
