Artist's Statement:
Cynthia "Karin" Cortes was born and raised in NYC, NY. Her mother emigrated from Ecuador to NYC, where she met Cynthia's father, of Puerto Rican decent. Cortes revealed an affinity for the arts at an early age, attracted to various disciplines from dance to painting and even drawing. Cortes studied dance for several years before devoting her life to photography. The artist's passion inspired her to study the refined elements of her craft, attending I.C.P [International Center of Photography] for 3 years, while beginning to build what would eventually become a stunning professional portfolio.
Today Cortes, a multi-faceted photographic artist is renown for her sexy, unique slant on the world and its beautiful occupants. Her command of her visual senses allows her to see the unseen. She has demonstrated talent to capture the subtle moments between the spaces-moments worthy of being memorialized on film. It is her intuition coupled with tremendous drive that enables her to forever seize the true essence of the moment. In high demand, collectors, advertising agency, and artist around the world seek out her work.
Cortes' self-portraits began 16 years ago. Her motivation thrived from moments that left a significant mark in her life. Applying some fashion elements to her work, she would uniquely document her moments as they would pass. Her goal was to shoot as if she was painting on a canvas - she wanted to emulate paintings with her work.
For the past 7 years, Cortes has been Deputy Chief of one of the most unique art and lifestyle magazines in the industry. Karin + Raoul supports the intimate, sexy work of professional photographers daring to expose their sensual creativity.
_Doing Common Things in an Uncommon Way!
There is so much more to be said about the brilliant Cynthia K. Cortes than could ever be said in a bio. She is not only a kind-hearted and generous friend, but she donates her artwork to several charities all over the world and champions causes to empower young women and children. Ever the supporter of causes like The
Somaly Mam Foundation, I have enclosed some exhibit photos of Cynthia and her work for our SMF Global fundraiser "
Brave is Beautiful"!
-Monica Watkins/Founder of Art In Motion
Check out some of the exhibit photos below!
"Brave is Beautiful" Photography Courtesy of Theo Dora of Blap Blap Medis, Lucas Noonan and Matt Watt