Afflicted Yard
and the genius that lives there
by Ano Okera
A few months ago, I was hiding out in my manager’s place with my producer and a friend Jacqui. After a few drinks and random conversation she insisted that there is this friend of hers who I had to meet. She continued that his name is Peter Dean and forced me to log on to affictedyard.com to check out his work....I was immediately blown away.
Not only were the images visually captivating but the social commentary was out of this world. Being tired suddenly became an oversight because I hypnotized by the need to see everything that was captured, filmed or written by this unapologetic yet misunderstood genius from Jamaica. He has a way of sensationalizing simplicity. Sometimes it moves your spirit and other times it outright disturbs your core though you can't get enough. I said to my friend 'Jacqui, I have to meet this bredrin....when is he coming to New York?' She responded 'Funny you ask, he is coming the following week.'
I met Peter and Jacqui for drinks at the Standard Hotel in New York. As awkward as I felt for doing it, I had to share with Peter how huge a fan I was of his work and that I also idolized his politically incorrect execution. He laughed at his discomfort of me putting him on the spot while expressing his sentiments.
While immersing his self in the New York vibe, Peter's need to expanding his work recently landed him a feature in French Vogue and a couple of other European Publications. As a result, I was asked to Produce and Creative Direct some of the new editorial content for afflictedyard.com, so as to add another dimension to his brand. I thought they were crazy for asking me...after I excitedly said...'YESSS!!!’.
Peter's work has impacted the way I now view photography as art. Our collaboration was effortless and his willingness to share his enthusiasm for the process was a tremendous learning experience. I feel blessed to be able to do what I love while tapping into the creative masterminds like Peter who leave indelible imprints on our psyche.
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