Fierumbre
By Ely Piñeiro
Fierumbre is a documentary photography project that explores a society built on sacrifice, where its inhabitants have learned to exist in a world where light is trapped between fog and fire. It is not a nostalgic look or an attempt to idealise the difficulties, but an immersion in the harsh reality of a Spain that still breathes dignity. It is a fierce, resilient Spain deeply intertwined with its land.
At the heart of this project lies the relationship between humans and animals, a bond forged through necessity, survival and tacit understanding. The latter are not mere companions or tools; they are part of an intricate system of coexistence, where dependence and struggle shape daily life.
The terrain itself imposes its own challenges: harsh winters, scorching summers and landscapes that demand resistance from those who inhabit them. Summer brings with it the added threat of devastating wildfires, which ravage the land and test the resolve of those who call it home.
Through this project, Fierumbre seeks to bear witness to a way of life that persists, neither frozen in time nor immune to transformation, but firm in its own reality, where fog swallows light, fire leaves its mark and survival is an act of silent defiance.
About the Author:
Ely Piñeiro (Madrid, 1983) is a documentary photographer and photo editor with extensive experience in the visual narrative industry. With a degree in Journalism, she has worked with renowned agencies such as Geny Images, where she dedicated more than a decade to photo editing for important events and news coverage.
In addition, Ely was Head of Photography and Production for GQ magazine (2010-2015), overseeing the photographic direction and ensuring high-quality visual content.
Ely is currently pursuing a PhD in stock photography at UC3lv1, which provides her with a deep understanding of market trends and innovative approaches to image commercialization. Her research explores the changing landscape of digital photography and its implications for contemporary visual culture.
In addition to her publishing and academic activities, Ely is dedicated to documenting life in rural Spain. Her documentary projects capture the nuanced and often ignored realities of rural communities, highlighting their unique histories and traditions. Through her lens, Ely seeks to make these areas visible, offering insight into the rich cultural heritage and challenges faced by rural populations in modern society.
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