Years ago as I walked my route to work through the alleys I got an idea and I wrote it down—‘Alleyways of Aspen’. I didn’t know what this idea entailed, but i KNEW it was a source of inspiration. There’s something about the juxtaposition of swanky streets and gritty alleys and the sense of community that exists back there for me. After a series of universal interventions (more on that later), I made the decision to go back to school for a second degree this fall. So, when we were handed the final assignment for my photography class, ‘A Sense of Place’, it felt like a divine puzzle piece had been laid at my feet. I picked that puzzle piece up, and I snapped it in.

Aspen is known by the world as a high-end destination for the rich and famous. High fashion boutiques and fine dining restaurants line the streets. Women and men in fur coats stroll the sidewalks with designer handbags and designer dogs. People come here to be seen, but I know a place in Aspen that holds a different kind of beauty, a place where people go to not be seen. If you walk the Alleyways of Aspen you’ll see the grittier side of ‘world class’ skiing, shopping and dining. This is a place that most people, either by choice or ignorance, simply do not notice.

I’ve known Aspen as the place I’ve lived, played, and worked for the last ten years. The alleys conjure a feeling of mystery in me. Delivery doors, employee entrances, and that which shall not be seen exist here—the alleyways are a world of creative wonder. They are a respite from the crowds where the tourist dares not trek, unless to puff a sneaky three martini cigarette. Dumpsters and mountains of empty kegs line these streets, and a peekaboo view of Traynor Ridge or Majestic Shadow Mountain is a beacon of a brighter tomorrow.

My intention for this project is to show the a side of Aspen that no one wants to see. For me, there is something deeply moving about the orphaned parts of a place, a shadow land of secrets and un-desireables. I wanted to shine a light here, and show people that the Alleyways of Aspen possess a cultural depth that is all their own. The streets are a façade, a costume, much like the Kemosabe hats and weekend cowboy boots one sees on every summer tourist prancing through town. The alleys are the authentic essence, the true nature, and the very heart of Aspen.

Life is not a guarantee, it is a mysterious gift. Thank you universe, for helping me dust off the path before me, and for making this little dream come true. In the alleyways, I found my courage. I found a place in my heart, a shadow place that deserves a little more recognition. Thank you for joining me. xox. Stanley Jo