"I see the passage of time and the people that have come and gone over the years," said Nuez about a photo of Central Station in Detroit. "I love finding things that are shun by society get no respect and elevate them to monumental status, sort of dignifying things that have been rejected."
Long after hours, the artist ventures out into bleak urban settings in search of their elusive splendor. Nuez has made a career of capturing the perfect shot in dangerous places.
"People who would never in a million years go down a dark alley, I want them to see there is another side to it," Nuez said.
Nuez's family is from Spain, he was born in Montreal and has lived in many places- but said Chicago is his favorite.
Nuez shoots with a 50 year-old camera. Another topic- bugs.
"I make them larger than life characters," said Nuez.
Critics say Nuez's photography reveals a sense of calm that is seemingly at odds with reality.
For a map of the open studios featuring 80 artists at the Pilsen East Artists Open House (chicagoartsdistrict.org/special-events.asp), visit the information booth at 1821 South Halsted. The event runs Friday from 6 to 10 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from noon until 7 p.m.
