Valentina Livingston
Army Strong - “Eat”, Train, “Eat”, “Sleep”, “Repeat”
Albuquerque, NM
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This photographic series documents moments from my time in Army training, focusing on a subject that is often overlooked: food. While military culture frequently emphasizes strength, resilience, and performance, less attention is given to the quality of the fuel provided to those expected to meet those demands. The images capture meals served during training exercises—food that, in my experience, often felt disconnected from the physical and mental requirements placed upon service members. Through these photographs, I invite viewers to consider the relationship between nourishment, performance, and human resilience. The meals depicted are more than food; they become symbols of a broader reality within military life. They represent the gap between what is required of service members and what is sometimes provided in return. Despite these challenges, the photographs also document perseverance. Every image serves as evidence of individuals continuing to perform, adapt, and accomplish their mission regardless of circumstance. The work reflects a culture where endurance is expected and where success often depends on pushing forward even when conditions are less than ideal.
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