The Sound of Repair

This project is a portrait of Cunningham Collision Center, a body shop where damaged vehicles are restored and, in the process, the people who restore them reveal something deeper about craft, time, and care; skills that are often overlooked. In this loud, dusty world, I follow the physical transformation of two trucks alongside the stories of the individuals who bring them back to life.

I wanted to portray the shop by focusing on the people within it and telling that story. Prior to this work, I had never walked into a body shop or used a camera, so this project became an exploration of new environments. Through my work, I became fascinated by the process and skill required to return damaged cars to a like new state. I aim to portray Evan, Slim, Jeff, Angel, Pablo, and Brian as the engines of this world by showcasing their work and telling their stories based on what they shared with me.

I want to thank Brian and Evan for welcoming me into his shop in February, and all the men there who embraced my project and allowed me to photograph their work. I feel lucky to have learned even a little about bodywork through this experience.