As a vibrant hub of innovation and expression, Oakland has long been a mecca for creatives of all types. Whether you're a chef crafting gastronomic masterpieces, a visionary entrepreneur shaping the future, or a one-of-a-kind photographer like Chava Oropesa, capturing the essence of food and culture, Oakland offers a fertile ground for artistic growth and expression.
Chava Oropesa, an Art Director turned food photographer, has cultivated a career deeply rooted in his Mexican heritage and passion for food and culture. Originally from Mexico, he moved to Oakland two decades ago. His journey into photography began with a few required courses during his graphic design studies. However, it was his love for food and the rich cultural traditions of Mexico that truly ignited his passion for capturing culinary artistry. Oropesa's distinctive style has garnered recognition, leading him to collaborate with major brands like Google.
“I definitely approach photography with a very graphic design eye because of my background. But when it comes to food, I'm a person with a big passion and I also love to cook. Linking both things: my love for food and my love for photography has been really joyful for me."
Oropesa's Mexican heritage, Mexico City heritage to be exact — deeply influences his approach to food and its presentation. Growing up surrounded by the vibrant flavors and traditions of Mexican cuisine and culture, Oropesa developed a profound appreciation for the intricate balance of taste and aesthetics.
His love for bright colors, a staple in Mexican culture, is reflected in his work as he incorporates vivid hues into his dishes and set ups. The bold and expressive nature of Mexican cuisine, rooted in centuries of tradition, inspires Oropesa to create dishes that are not only delicious but also visually stunning. By incorporating elements of his heritage into his culinary creations, Oropesa celebrates his identity and shares the richness of Mexican culture with the world.
“My Mexican heritage 100% influences my work. As a Mexican person, I naturally love color. The brighter and more saturated the color — the better. I grew up around that. Mexican culture is all about color, joy and boldness — that definitely influences my work all together. I bring that to the table every single time I have a chance. My clients seek for that signature look that I incorporate, they approach me with the idea that they want to bring that colorful boldness to the project. My visual history and background influences it.”
Oropesa’s deep-rooted affection for the city's vibrant community, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural tapestry has solidified his commitment to Oakland. The city's diverse population and vibrant atmosphere have provided endless inspiration for his culinary photography. Oropesa is particularly fond of two local culinary gems: Pop-up shops Dos Raicez, which occasionally comes to Oakland, and the Oakland-based ice creamery, De La Creamery. These establishments, among countless others, contribute to Oakland's thriving food scene and continue to captivate Oropesa's creative spirit.
“You find every type of person, every walk of life, every culture here — with that you also find amazing food. That’s another thing that I really love about this town, how diverse and colorful it is here.”
As Oakland continues to evolve as a cultural and creative hub, photographers like Chava Oropesa play a vital role in preserving and celebrating its unique identity. Through his lens, Oropesa captures the essence of his Mexican heritage. His work serves as a testament to the city's enduring spirit and its ability to inspire creatives from all walks of life.
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