Esther is of a women of intelligence, compassion, and strength. She is Panamanian and lives in Panama City. I came to know Esther through my daughter, who spent a year in Panama City, working and living in neighborhoods inhospitable to unaccompanied young women. Esther met and befriended my daughter, and they became great friends.

Esther’s ordinary operating state is exuberance, so I found her softness in repose captivating. I wanted, through this portrait, to give expression to her quiet and gentle side.