Photography
Our photography captures the resilience, culture, and humanity of the Arizona-Sonora borderlands and beyond. As humanitarian aid volunteers and avid travelers, we document the lived journey of migrants, the work of aid organizations, the challenging dynamics of the border region, and the unique social and historical landscapes of communities around the world.
Through our lens, we seek to tell powerful, untold stories—preserving moments of struggle, strength, and connection in remote landscapes and bustling cities. Each image invites viewers to see these realities up close, fostering a deeper understanding of the people and places that define our shared planet.
My name is Nicholas Matthews
The borderlands are a place of deep connections and juxtapositions: geographically, culturally, and ecologically.
As a fifth-generation Arizonan, despite being born in the UK, the contrasts and colors of this corner of the world have always called me home, even after spending considerable time abroad. From Seville, Spain, to the Amazon rainforest, I’ve found pieces of the mosaic that make up these borderlands. This region is ever-changing yet remains rooted in its grit and diversity.
In recent years, I’ve worked at the intersection of environmental protection and public health in border communities. My experiences along the Arizona-Sonora border, both professionally and through volunteering, have shaped my perspective on the region and the people, including myself, who call it home.
I started Rio Fronteras to highlight the culture, history, and resilience of the borderlands in a way that challenges stereotypes. From Phoenix to Hermosillo, this geography is connected on a deeper level - regardless of shifting political rhetoric.
Visual storytelling, through photography, clothing, and design, has a powerful way of bridging perspectives. I’m excited to bring this project to life, sharing just a glimpse of what I’ve seen and experienced alongside the many incredible organizations based in Tucson.
