A poignant exploration of the human stories behind the agricultural abundance of Southwest Florida emerges in The Face of Immokalee at Artis—Naples, The Baker Museum. This public art project is nestled within the expansive exhibition "The Art of Food" and shows the multi-year collaboration between Immokalee residents and Naples-based photographer Michelle Tricca. It unveils the unique tapestry of faces that define the community responsible for 90% of Florida's tomatoes.
At the heart of Immokalee lies not just a bustling agricultural hub but a community with a rich history and a significant role in shaping the state's food production landscape. As visitors immerse themselves in The Face of Immokalee they are greeted by large-format black-and-white portraits that breathe life into the diverse individuals who contribute to the region's agricultural economy.
The collaboration between the residents of Immokalee and Tricca serves as a testament to the power of art in amplifying the voices of communities often overlooked. Each photograph in the collection captures the essence of individuals from different ages and backgrounds, celebrating the unique stories and individuality that collectively form the vibrant tapestry of Immokalee.
Beyond being a visual spectacle, The Face of Immokalee delves into the community's significant contribution to the Coalition of Immokalee Workers' Fair Food Program. This groundbreaking program, born in Immokalee, champions the human rights of farmworkers, stabilizes the workforce for growers, and eradicates labor abuses within the supply chain. The photographs serve as a tribute to the resilience and strength of a community that has not only shaped the agricultural landscape but has also been at the forefront of advocating for fair and ethical labor practices.
As visitors stroll through this exhibit, they are invited to witness the faces behind the statistics, the individuals behind the harvest, and the soul of a community that continues to play a pivotal role in Florida's agricultural narrative. The Face of Immokalee is more than a collection of portraits; it is a celebration of humanity, resilience, and the enduring spirit of a community deeply intertwined with the land it cultivates.
