INTERVIEW
September 13, 2024
THROUGH MY FIRST LENS:
The Rastro and My Photography Beginnings
Photography by Carmen Solana Cires
Interview by Karen Ghostlaw Pomarico
Welcome to an exploration of Madrid’s iconic open-air market through the eyes of Carmen Solana Cires, a 23-year-old photographer whose passion for capturing life’s subtleties is reflected in her latest project, “El Rastro.” Carmen’s journey into photography is strongly influenced by her early experiences and family connections, all of which have shaped her artistic vision.
El Rastro is Madrid’s most famous and historic flea market, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, eclectic mix of goods, and deep cultural significance. Held every Sunday and public holiday, El Rastro is more than just a market; it’s a living testament to Madrid’s rich history and diverse urban life.
El Rastro’s origins date back to the Middle Ages, when merchants would gather to exchange goods along trade routes near the Rastro neighborhood of Madrid. The Name El Rastro translates to “The Trail.” This trail is thought to come from the blood trail left by livestock being transported to and from nearby slaughterhouses and tanneries. In the 16th century ‘rastro’ was used as a synonym for butcher’s shop or abattoir.
In the 1730s, the neighborhood began to take shape into the market it is today. With the arrival of ‘ropavejeros’, the people who sold used clothing and goods from makeshift stalls on the streets, it became a place for the community to gather. The buying and selling of merchandise connected the surrounding communities through trade and commerce. It operates today as a growing population and extended community, embracing its long history of traditions, where something old can become new again.
El Rastro is situated in the La Latina neighborhood, one of Madrid’s most spirited and historic areas. The market stretches from the Plaza de Cascorro to the Ronda de Toledo, weaving through a maze of narrow streets and alleys. Over the years the El Rastro market has become a contemporary hotspot, with over 1,000 vendors selling a variety of items, including secondhand clothing, antiques, craftwork, books, old photographs, rare coins, jewelry, vinyl, and more. The market also has themed streets, such as Calle San Cayetano, known as "Painters' street", where permanent stalls sell paintings, drawings, and art supplies. In addition to shopping, visitors can enjoy live music, improvised theater, and magic shows. This sprawling layout creates a unique shopping experience, where vendors set up their stalls in every available space, from the street corners to the doorways of local shops.
El Rastro is not just a market; it is a cultural and social hub. It embodies the essence of Madrid’s dynamic life, serving as a gathering place where locals and visitors mingle. The market is a reflection of the city’s diverse character, showcasing a wide range of goods and the stories of the people who sell them.
As we delve into this interview, Carmen will share her personal story, her inspirations, and the profound impact of her project on both her and her community. Join us as we discover how Carmen’s work not only highlights the rich history of Madrid’s iconic market but also brings to light the broader narratives of human connection and artistic expression.
“El Rastro is an open-air market held every Sunday in the Lavapiés neighborhood, where second-hand objects are sold. The stalls are spread around Plaza de Cascorro, Ribera de Curtidores street and its surroundings. What strikes me most about the Rastro is the great variety of objects that can be found, from different past decades, and the diversity of people who visit it.”
IN CONVERSATION WITH CARMEN SOLANA CIRES
THE PICTORIAL LIST: Hello Carmen, it is a pleasure for us to present your project, “El Rastro”, let's get to know you a bit better, and introduce you to our community. Please tell us a little more about yourself. Where you are from, your connections to your community, and influences your community or family have given to you?
CARMEN SOLANA: Since I was a child, I’ve always been passionate about photography, although I couldn’t say exactly why. When I realized that I wanted to dedicate myself to this, I decided to study Audiovisual Communication and Digital Photography at the Francisco de Vitoria University. This career has allowed me to develop my skills and knowledge in the field of image and sound, thanks in large part to two professors who have marked me deeply: Pablo García Sacristán (@pablo_garcia_sacristan) and Baldesca Samper Díaz (@baldescasamper), both photographers.
My connection with photography also has family roots. On both maternal and paternal sides, I have relatives who are into photography as a hobby. One of them was my paternal grandfather, whom I never got to meet. Interestingly, my family always said that I was like a reincarnation of him. Over the years, I developed tastes and hobbies very similar to his, including photography, without my knowing that it was also one of his passions. After I finished my degree, my father showed me all the awards my grandfather had won in competitions and all the cameras and albums he had kept as heirlooms. Growing up surrounded by cameras and photo albums has been a great inspiration for me, teaching me to appreciate the power of images to tell stories and capture meaningful moments.
Madrid, with its rich cultural diversity and vibrant urban scenes, has been the perfect setting for my development as a photographer. The city offers endless opportunities to capture unique moments and has a very active artistic community that has allowed me to grow and learn from other professionals in the industry.
I am excited to introduce “El Rastro” to our community. This project is not only an extension of my passion for photography, but also an opportunity to connect with others and share my view of the world through my lens. I appreciate the opportunity to introduce myself and look forward to meeting and learning from all of you.
TPL: When was the first time you picked up a camera and held it to your eye? What was that experience like, what inspired you to become a photographer?
CARMEN: I don’t remember exactly the first time I picked up a camera, but I do remember the moment I realized I wanted to pursue photography. That’s when I realized it was something I was intrigued and passionate about.
Whenever we would drive home from my grandmother’s house, my mother, my brother and I, I would always ask to ride in the passenger seat, because there was a stretch of road where we would come out of a tunnel and into a long, wide street. We almost always came back at sunset time so there was a spectacular sunset from that street. Every Saturday, I would take a picture of the sky with my cell phone, through the front window of the car. Every day, the sky was different.
One day, my mother asked me why I photographed the same sky every week from the same street. I explained that I was fascinated to see the different sunsets, how the colors changed and reflected different lights on the surrounding buildings, the different types of clouds each day, etc. all in one place. How curious it seemed to me all the different shapes the same place could have. It was at that moment when I realized that I was deeply attracted to the idea of observing the things I liked and capturing them with my eyes, trying to transmit the beauty with which I saw them.
TPL: What inspired this project? What is the importance of the connections to the surrounding streets, to the community? Who are the people that run the booths, sell the goods? Is this primarily for tourists? Or is this a place that supports the local economy, and people from surrounding communities shop here?
CARMEN: The project of photographing “El Rastro” in Madrid was born out of my fascination for the daily life and rich history that is breathed in this emblematic market. “El Rastro” is not just a place to buy and sell; it is a microcosm of Madrid's cultural diversity, a space where stories, traditions and people from all walks of life converge. I wanted to capture the essence of this place, its vitality and unique character, through my lens.
Connections to the surrounding streets and community are central to “El Rastro”. The narrow streets and alleys surrounding the market are part of its identity, creating an almost magical atmosphere that attracts locals and visitors alike. The relationships between the merchants and the neighbors are the soul of “El Rastro”. Many of the vendors have had stalls there for generations, passing the trade from father to son, creating a deep sense of community and belonging.
The people manning the stalls are as diverse as the products they sell. We found everything from antique dealers and collectors to artisans and clothing and food vendors. Each has a unique story and a personal connection to the market, which further enriches the “El Rastro” experience.
Although “El Rastro” attracts many tourists, it remains an important pillar of the local economy. Madrileños and residents of nearby neighborhoods frequent the market, not only to shop, but also to socialize and enjoy the atmosphere. “El Rastro” supports the local economy by providing a space for small merchants and artisans to sell their products and keep their traditions alive.
In short, this project is inspired by the cultural richness and vibrant community life of “El Rastro”. Through my photographs, I hope to capture and share the importance of this market for both locals and visitors, showing its essential role in the economy and culture of Madrid.
TPL: What have you learned from your work on this project, how will this inspire work in the future?
CARMEN: Working on the project of photographing “El Rastro” in Madrid has been an incredibly enriching experience. I have learned so much about the cultural diversity and daily life of my city, and about the importance of the human connections that are woven in places like this market. Each photograph tells a unique story, and each person I've met has taught me something valuable about resilience, tradition, and community.
One of the most significant learnings has been understanding how a place can be a meeting point for different generations, cultures and lifestyles. “El Rastro” is not just a market, it is a reflection of the history and soul of Madrid. This project has taught me to take a closer look and appreciate the details that we often overlook in our daily routine.
In addition, interacting with vendors and visitors has shown me the importance of keeping our traditions alive and supporting the local economy. I have seen firsthand how the market is not only a place of commerce, but also a space for socializing and community connection.
In the future, this project will inspire my work in several ways. First, it has reaffirmed for me the importance of capturing the essence of places and people with authenticity and empathy. It has also motivated me to continue exploring and documenting other aspects of urban life and local communities, always seeking to tell stories that highlight the beauty and beauty of the place.
Finally, this project has strengthened my desire to use photography as a tool for connection and understanding between people. I hope to continue to create images that are not only visually appealing, but also convey a deep sense of place and humanity.
TPL: When you photograph, what is your intention for the viewer? What do you want them to take away from your work? What is your take away?
CARMEN: When I photograph, my intention is for the viewer to become immersed in the scene and feel a deep connection to the captured moment. I want my photographs to convey emotions and aesthetically offer a sense of peace and harmony. I like there to be a visual order that invites reflection and enjoyment of the details.
Playing with light, shapes and framing is fundamental in my work. I use light to create unique atmospheres and highlight aspects that might go unnoticed. Shapes and framing allow me to guide the viewer's gaze, highlighting elements that I consider essential to understand the story behind the image.
I hope that those who see my photographs will take away an enriching visual experience, allowing them to see the beauty in the everyday and appreciate the simplicity of the moments captured. I want them to feel the calm and order that I try to capture, and for each image to invite them to stop and take a closer look.
In short, I want my photographs to be a window to moments of serenity and beauty, and to inspire viewers to appreciate the small details and the light that surrounds us in our daily lives.
TPL: Who are some photographers that have influenced your visual storytelling? Do you have a favorite quote you would like to share?
CARMEN: In my photography, my influences go beyond other photographers; they extend to three main areas: photography, graphic design and music. These three disciplines are the sources of inspiration that nourish my work every day.
In the field of photography, the first reference is Chema Madoz, a conceptual artist who presents everyday objects transformed in a surrealistic way, creating optical illusions that alter their original use. The results can convey messages ranging from humor and irony to drama, without losing their intrinsic beauty.
The second photographer who inspires me is Pablo Gil, a Spanish photographer known for his excellent use of analog photography. Most of his images capture everyday moments with his friends, hobbies and the places he visits.
Finally, Megan Clark, an American photographer, combines concert photography with graphic design, creating final images with innovative and surprising colors, shapes, lights and framing. Her ability to merge these elements deeply inspires me.
In the field of graphic design, Alan Fletcher, known as the father of British graphic design, is a seminal figure for me. His ability to play with expressive typography and bold colors, along with a clear visual language, demonstrates that graphic design is more than a decorative element; it has great utility, especially in advertising.
Another reference in graphic design is Paula Scher, whose impressive works mix shapes, sizes, typographies and colors, creating unique and visually stunning collages.
Finally, music is an essential part of my daily creative process. It accompanies me in every photographic project and inspires me deeply in every creative process behind them, not only when I listen to it, but also when I see video clips or album covers. Music drives me to create and explore new forms and styles of photography, influenced by the genre, the beat and the artist.
Photography, graphic design and music - intertwine in my work, providing a rich source of inspiration that is reflected in each of my images.
TPL: What drives you to be a documentary photographer? What inspires your product photography? Do you enjoy the studio work as much as events and reportage?
CARMEN: What drives me to become a documentary photographer is the fascination for naturalness, spontaneity and the rawness of reality. Documentary photography allows me to capture moments as they are, without artifice, showing a truth that may vary depending on the eye that observes it, but that remains intact in its essence. I am attracted to the idea of documenting life as it presents itself to me, capturing the beauty and rawness of the everyday.
To photograph products, I am inspired by the possibility of transforming and redesigning reality. Unlike documentary photography, here I have the freedom to play with the object, to disrupt its form and presentation to offer completely new and unique perspectives. This contrast allows me to explore my creativity in a different way, reinventing and experimenting with each shot.
I love studio work as much as event and reportage work. Studio work gives me complete control over all the elements, allowing me to manipulate light, shadows and framing with precision to get the desired result. It is a space where I can experiment and perfect every detail. On the other hand, events and reportage offer me the adrenaline of unpredictability and the opportunity to capture unrepeatable moments with authenticity and spontaneity.
In my mind, documentary photography and product photography are two completely different, but equally exciting worlds. I couldn’t live without either, as each offers me a unique way to express myself and connect with my environment and my audience.
TPL: Tell us about one of the standout moments you have had documenting and reporting, photographing a product, and a special event back story.
CARMEN: One of the highlights of my time documenting and reporting was a family trip to Covadonga in Asturias. This trip was especially meaningful to me, as Covadonga is my grandmother’s birthplace, which added a personal and emotional layer to the experience.
During the trip, I focused on capturing not only the landscapes and landmarks of the region, but also the intimate and authentic moments we shared as a family. Rather than photographing strangers or environments with no personal connection, my images starred my family members and the places that hold great meaning for them.
The process of documenting this journey was like creating a totally natural and personal “documentary”. I focused on capturing the essence of our interactions and the beauty of the places from an intimate and familiar perspective. Each photo told a part of our story, showing the emotions, landscapes and everyday moments that made the trip memorable.
This approach allowed me to create a lasting and authentic memory for my family and gave me deep satisfaction as a photographer in seeing how photography can capture not only reality, but also emotions and personal connection to the environment. This type of work reminds me of the power of photography to tell meaningful and personal stories, making each image a genuine reflection of the lived experience.
TPL: Tell us how graphic design influences your photography?
TPL: Where do you see yourself in 5 years, what would be your dream photography job?
CARMEN: Five years from now, I envision myself working in an environment where I feel completely at ease, surrounded by people with whom I can interact and collaborate. As someone who enjoys dealing with both clients and colleagues, I am looking for a position that combines my passion for photography with a dynamic and social environment. My goal is to be with a company that allows me to always have a camera by my side and be involved in photography projects in the advertising and events field.
My dream photography job would be to be able to make a living from product photography, where I have the freedom to explore and express my creativity. I would love to receive assignments for advertising campaigns, where I can contribute innovative and fresh images that capture the essence of each brand. The possibility of working in an environment that trusts my creative vision and allows me to develop new ideas for each project would be ideal for me.
TPL: What have you learned about becoming a photographer, entering the field? What were some of the biggest challenges you have faced? How did you overcome them? What do you feel could support young photographers, how can we inspire young eyes and minds of the future?
CARMEN: The profession of photography is undoubtedly a tough one and is often faced with the underestimation of the value and importance of the work we do. It is not easy to make a living from photography alone, and many times we must struggle to have our effort and talent recognized and adequately compensated. Despite these challenges, it is essential to persist and stay motivated.
One of the biggest challenges I have faced has been being self-employed for the first six months after finishing college. Throwing myself into the real world with limited knowledge about how the industry works and striving to assert myself in a competitive environment was a challenging experience. I overcome this obstacle through perseverance, continuous learning and building a network of contacts that allowed me to grow professionally.
For young photographers, my advice would be to stay passionate and persevere. The field of photography is constantly expanding, and its value is being recognized more and more, especially in an increasingly visual world. Taking advantage of this trend and staying on top of new technologies and approaches can be very beneficial. Inspiring the young eyes and minds of the future means showing them that photography is not just a hobby, but a valuable and evolving profession, full of opportunities for those who are willing to work hard and keep learning.
TPL: When you are not out photographing, where would we find you, where is your happy place, what do you do there?
CARMEN: When I’m not photographing, my happy place is always associated with being surrounded by my people. It doesn’t matter if we are traveling, enjoying our trusted bar or exploring the most remote corner of the world; the essential is the company of friends and family. My happiness lies in those shared moments, full of laughter and good company. Whether it’s a lively conversation, a spontaneous adventure or a simple get-together, being with the people I love is what really fills me with joy and makes me feel in my happy place.
Carmen has helped us gain a deeper understanding of her artistic journey and the inspiration behind her compelling project, “El Rastro.” Carmen’s dedication to capturing the essence of Madrid’s iconic market reveals a profound appreciation for the cultural and social dynamics that define her city. Her reflections on photography, influence from family and mentors, and the insights gained from her work offer a glimpse into the thoughtful and empathetic approach she brings to her craft. As Carmen continues to explore and document urban life through her lens, her work stands as a testament to the power of photography to connect us with the beauty and complexity of everyday moments. Her photographic project became a celebration of the city’s cultural heritage making the human connections that breathe life into the streets.
Carmen captures the essence of everyday life, weaving together personal history and artistic vision sharing her visual story that resonates with authenticity and empathy. Her journey from a childhood fascination with sunsets to a professional career in photography underscores the transformative power of capturing moments in time. Through “El Rastro,” Carmen invites us to see Madrid not just as a city, but as a living, breathing narrative filled with life, color, and endless possibility.
Take this opportunity to explore more of Carmen’s work and let her take you on her photographic journey of becoming an inspiring visual storyteller. Young creative eyes defining a new future in photography.
