“The Olympian” [PR0JECT: empwr’d] (2025)
Photographed, Edited and Published by Anderson ‘The Town Jeweler’ Fortune Jr
A conceptual initiative dedicated to the strength and composure of the Black man. Once he’s born into the world, he’s stitched with a name which empowers him. A name that is only synonymous with his own actions. In this case, our subject in focus Valdony looks to physically strengthen his mind, body and perhaps his WILL with the use of his environment! I built a vision centered around the word ‘strength’ and what other way could it be executed without physicality?!
From the wardrobe to the creative output, Valdony placed a great deal of stock into directing the shoot. With so much enthusiasm and momentum throughout the production, Anderson considered shooting an actual “calisthenics and machinery” gym session, going so far as to drawing an A1 performance out of Valdony.
From running track to dips, pull ups and even pushing weights- Valdony performed like the true 0LYMPIAN !
