"Photography is about finding out what can happen in the frame. When you put four edges around some facts, you change those facts." - Garry Winogrand

I don't often take photos at Eluxolweni because I want some of the memories from this place to be just in my mind; I think it's better that way sometimes. It's nice to have ready access at the click of a mouse, but it also cheapens the memory.

This past Saturday was different, peaceful, really wonderful. The sun was out, the wind was blowing the leaves on the trees and the sandy, red dirt around the shelter yard. It had been a peaceful, calm day at Eluxolweni-something that nobody takes for granted here as this peace is too often shattered by a random act of violence.

The sun was setting and the afternoon was turning into a beautiful South African evening. I brought out the digital and hopefully, I will have provided you with a small slice of life at Eluxolweni Shelter.

Date: Saturday, October 20, 2007
Photographer: Jason Torreano
Location: Eluxolweni Shelter, Grahamstown, South Africa
Inspiration: The kids of Eluxolweni Shelter


Double-edged sword: The razor wire surrounding the shelter helps to keep the dangerous out, but can also be clipped and turned into a weapon.


Make shift seats: Flipped over milk cases serve as chairs for kids who sit in the shelter yard.


Repair and recycle: Aromat sewing together a bag that's been ripped across the top.


Friends forever: Inseperable Iviwe and Malibongwe together outside Eluxolweni.


Simplicity under the sun: Shelter boys play cricket outside Eluxolweni gates.