How a London Photographer Found a Second Home in Medellin Through Skateboarding
For London-based Canadian-British photographer and director Lauren Luxenberg, Medellin was never part of the original plan. A chance decision during a 2018 trip to South America eventually led to a long-term relationship with the city — and to Touching Ground, a photography and film project created with Medellin skateboarder and creative director Ronal Sanmartin, also […]
London-based photographer Lauren Luxenberg first visited South America in 2018 and, following a friend's recommendation, decided to spend time in Medellin, Colombia. While she initially had no interest in the city, she quickly changed her mind after meeting Colombian rapper Señor Pablo and being introduced to Medellin's vibrant creative community. This chance encounter led to her long-term relationship with the city and a creative collaboration with Medellin skateboarder Ronal Sanmartin, also known as WTF Ronnie.
Their partnership, Touching Ground, began with a shared interest in showcasing Medellin's skateboarding culture differently. Sanmartin, who started skating at thirteen, wanted to portray the sport as a reflection of the city's broader identity. The project initially started as a single photo shoot but transformed into a comprehensive exploration of skateboarding, incorporating photography, film, and a planned book.
This approach aimed to capture the essence of Medellin's skateboarding community, including its friendships, family ties, fashion, music, art, and the mutual support found among its members.
As Touching Ground evolved, Luxenberg observed significant changes in Medellin, including an influx of international visitors, increased tourism, and gentrification. Despite these transformations, she felt safer in the city, attributing her newfound peace of mind to the everyday interactions she witnessed. Moments of connection, such as residents watching skaters from balconies or skaters spontaneously dancing in shops, highlighted the city's unique culture.
For Sanmartin, the project serves as a means of opening doors for Medellin's skateboarding community, potentially leading to greater international recognition, sponsorships, and collaborations between sports and the arts. The project has already gained traction, featuring in publications like Dazed and exhibiting in China. For Luxenberg, the project emphasized the importance of patience in creative endeavors, suggesting that meaningful projects unfold gradually rather than in a rushed manner.
Both artists are still refining the book and documentary, with plans to explore additional topics, including Sanmartin's family history in Medellin and Luxenberg's potential documentaries on Colombia's Llanos region and a music producer from San Andres.
Written by urgent.news from Colombia One's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
