23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest The American Experience
Freedom

This is one image of a three part series called Wanderlust where the subject is curiosity, freedom, and care of this butterfly's flight amongst humans. The reason it caught my attention is because it reminded me of my journey from Nashville to San Diego. When I came out here, I was able to experience freedom for the first time. I didn't have to be any version of myself. I could just be who I wanted to be. The contrast of this butterfly flying beside this child's feet felt like the poetry of letting your inner child be free.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 08.2025
Date Uploaded: 11.2025
Photo Location: Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
Camera: NIKON D5100
Copyright: © Amarii Anderson