George Cavallo | Personal Armor

About the artist:
I am so fortunate to be both a professional photographer as well as a painter. From a very young age, I have enjoyed dabbling in both brushwork and camera art. Usually, these two mediums are perceived as entirely independent disciplines. My unique training has given me a creative bridge between these two highly specialized fields. I apply these same concepts to photography by studying each scene with my painterly eye to capture a much more dynamic and exciting composition.

About this work:
During these extraordinary times, everyday people are donning an abundance of Personal protective equipment. I feel like we are all wearing some kind of armor. I began thinking of the medieval Knights who virtually lived in their armor so they could get accustomed to its weight. Many of our Frontline workers, doctors, and nurses are living in their protection now. When I reached out to the Seattle Knights for portrait volunteers, I envision stout gentleman-soldiers. To my shock, primarily women answered my request. Although it was rare for a woman to carry the title of knight, there are plenty of fierce women who fought as knights. I wanted to capture the beauty forged amongst the battered leather, chainmail, and steel armor in these warriors.