Valery Rizzo’s “Wonderland” is a vibrant, deeply personal document of Brooklyn life spanning over 15 years (2007–2023). Uniquely, the majority of the photographs were taken with “toy” cameras (like the Holga or Diana), known for their unpredictable light leaks and soft focus. This technical choice infuses the images with a nostalgic, dreamlike quality that mirrors the artist’s own recovery process following a health crisis. The book navigates through Coney Island’s boardwalks, neighborhood block parties, and quiet domestic scenes, celebrating the diversity and eccentricity of Brooklyn’s residents. It is not just a geographic study, but a testament to the joy found in spontaneous, unpolished moments of everyday life.
