I am no stranger to adversity. Born in El Salvador, I watched my family struggle to immigrate to the US and start life in the bay area with literally nothing. Hard work allowed them to stay and I was able to become a wife, mother and successful businesswoman in one of the most affluent areas of the world. I have always been drawn to the creative. I became a hairstylist and recently retired from an impressive 26+ year career – learning, teaching, and creating modern looks. Now as a returning student, I am working on my Psychology and Photography degrees. I feel that my work with portraits complements my psychology major by teaching me to see all sides of a person and help them and the world see their true beauty. I sincerely hope my work will teach people how vital it is to love themselves and how challenging it can be.

(1983 Torrez family photograph taken by my mother using a 110 Kodak camera. I am wearing the blue hoodie in the top center)