Xan Padrón, a Galician photographer currently based in the bustling metropolis of New York City, brings a unique perspective to the world of photography, blending his passion for capturing the every day with a keen eye for storytelling.
Padrón’s journey into photography began with a serendipitous gift—a camera presented to him by photojournalist Enrique Reza. This moment sparked a lifelong fascination with the art form, instilling in him a deep appreciation for the beauty found in the mundane. Influenced by his father, journalist Luís Padrón, Xan learned the value of patience, observation, and the art of listening to stories—a skill that would later inform his photographic practice.
In his early years in New York City, Padrón embarked on diverse street photography projects, immersing himself in the vibrant energy of the city streets. However, it was in 2011 that he embarked on his acclaimed project, “Time Lapse.” This ambitious endeavour sought to capture the essence of various cities through the faces and stories of their inhabitants, providing a glimpse into the diverse tapestry of human experience across different urban landscapes.
The “Time Lapse” series has garnered widespread acclaim and recognition, with exhibitions held at prestigious venues such as the United Nations Headquarters in New York, The Pfizer Building in New York, and the Sala Valente in Spain. Padrón’s work has also been featured at renowned art fairs including Photo LA, Art on Paper NYC, and The Other Art Fair, presented by Saatchi Art in major cities across the globe.
In a significant milestone for his career, Xan Padrón was invited by the MTA Arts & Design Program in New York City to exhibit a selection of his “Time Lapse” series at the Bryant Park subway station—an opportunity that further solidified his place in the contemporary art scene.
Padrón’s evocative portraits and compelling storytelling have not gone unnoticed, gracing the covers of numerous international publications, including the autumn catalogue of Saatchi Art in 2019. Through his lens, he invites viewers to see the world through a new perspective, where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, and each face tells a unique story waiting to be heard.
As Xan Padrón continues to explore the dynamic intersection of photography and human experience, his work serves as a testament to the power of visual storytelling in capturing the essence of our shared humanity. With each click of his camera shutter, he invites us to pause, observe, and reflect on the beauty and complexity of the world around us.