LIKE explores the experiences and relationships of migrant workers in Oman. But rather than focusing on the defining public image of poor working conditions, photographer Ryan Debolski depicts men finding agency and connection to the landscape of the beach and companionship in each other they are as playful as they are introspective. A running dialogue of conversations via text message weaves together details of infrastructure and landscape and highlights the men’s digital communications with one another.
LIKE refuses to dehumanize or mystify the laborer, and an accompanying essay by Jason Koxvold, “Raw Material: Capital and Exploitation at the Neoliberal Frontier
(Bodha)
The eye pillow is deceiving. It just . sits there. Ah, that is the beauty of it. An eye pillow requires you to settle down while lying on your back all the better to enjoy deep, relaxing breaths. And you must be still, or else the eye pillow will just plop off. Now, are you following? This made-in-L.A. version from Bodha drapes itself over your face, shutting out all the light. It has just enough heft to it that it feels a bit like a weighted blanket for your face. It’s made in L.A. from soft washed linen, filled with a custom blend of organic buckwheat and lavender and chamomile flowers. The cover is washable. And just like that, you are halfway to a nap or a great night’s sleep.