The Moron Project is a photographic investigation of my hometown of Taft, California (briefly known as “Moron”).  An early 20th century boomtown made possible by the discovery of rich oil deposits, Taft has since experienced economic depression, political corruption, and struggles with an ongoing battle against the illegal production of methamphetamine.  Taft’s longevity relies heavily on its relationship with the oil industry, which hires approximately two-thirds of the town’s population

 

The Moron Project explores the social parallels of a small-town microcosm with the present state of American life, as well as visually illustrating the products of Taft’s ongoing symbiotic relationship with the oil industries and the subsequent effects on the surrounding landscape.