The Father Eriberto and the Son Estevan

On Saturday, October 1st in Culver City, California, the Carmichael Gallery hosted the “Like Father Like Son” photography show featuring the Oriol family (Eriberto and Estevan Oriol). The show brought the support and love of the community and people who believe in what they do. I’ve been a fan of the Oriol family for a really long time and I was amazed by the talent in the Carmichael Gallery. At times I felt that the photos were shot by the same photographer but in reality it was done by two separate individuals from two separate points in time. Eriberto’s documentary candid style photography is very impressive, especially when you see the prints in person and the true nature of Los Angeles’ history from the ’70s and ’80s. Now a few generations later, you see the style of his son Estevan Oriol come to life and his photos take your imagination on a wild journey. One of the photos that really got my attention was the man with the missing face – it always makes me wonder about the struggle that man has gone through in his life, but overall the photography was amazing! I was moved and motivated to take my abilities and to keep sharing it with my children and I hope everyone who came to the show also felt a similar desire to keep educating the new generation.

Willie T is a Los Angeles-based director and photographer. He has worked with and documented many of Los Angeles’ most respected street-level creatives including Estevan Oriol, Mr. Cartoon and The Seventh Letter among others. His work can be seen through his Tumblr and the Known Gallery while you can follow him on Twitter @GoodtimesMedia.