‘What is in your hand’ : Jonathan Benitez
-a Connecting Project-
This project is dedicated to forging a community rooted in our individual stories and the unique gifts we hold in our hands. We are beginning this journey with six individuals, with the hope that these connections will grow to form a truly creative and genuine community: H+
STORY OF
Jonathan Benitez
Story by Hanna Yoo
Cinematography by Marlo Irani
Photography by Tessa Belle Dillman
AD - Aneli Garrido
PA - Asia Smudde Tom, Ella Belle Warner
Thinking of Jonathan
I met Jonathan through Tessa, who had photographed him before. When she introduced him as a climber, my curiosity grew, and I wanted to hear his story.
The first time I met him, New York was still in the cold of winter. We shared warm tea and talked for a while.
As I listened to him speak about climbing rocks and mountains, and going higher, closer to the sky, my admiration for his journey grew. I felt grateful to get to know Jonathan and to have the chance to hear his story. He told me that climbing means freedom to him — touching and listening to nature with his fingers and hands, and moving upward with care in every step.
Through his story, I came to feel that climbing resembles life. There is always risk and fear when we step and grab a new stone, but one grip leads us to another. His bravery and acceptance of each moment touched me deeply.
I believe that each of those steps will carry him anywhere he wants to go.
I could see his passion and pride as a national representative of his country, Honduras, where he comes from and where he learned to understand nature more deeply.
I’m grateful to know him and to be able to cheer for his journey.
-Hanna Yoo
Cinematography by Marlo Irani
Conversation with Jonathan:
Question.
PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF — WHO YOU ARE, WHAT YOU DO, AND WHAT CURRENTLY INSPIRES OR DRIVES YOU.
Jonathan Benitez: My name is Jonathan Benitez. I am a professional competitive rock climber representing the nation of Honduras. What drives me is the chance to represent my people and others like me on the largest stage of climbing.
Question.
WHAT DOES “CLIMBING” MEAN TO YOU? — WHAT IS YOUR MESSAGE FROM WHAT YOU CREATE, AND WHERE IS YOUR PASSION IN IT?
Jonathan Benitez: What climbing means to me is freedom. Every time I have felt tangled or trapped by life, I was always able to find myself through climbing. It gives me life and a feeling of flight. I am always surrounded by a sense of euphoria as I scale a wall or during training. Nothing can replace this for me — it’s something I will always do in my life.
Question.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR CONNECTION WITH HANNA?
Jonathan Benitez: It’s relatively quite new. I found Hanna to be very welcoming and warm. She is surrounded by a gentle aura. As we had a cup of tea, she told me her views on life. I found them so beautiful that it was hard not to tear up a little.
Question.
WHAT DO YOU CARRY IN YOUR HAND NOW?
Jonathan Benitez: What I’m holding in my hands is my career and future.
To explore more of Bonam Kim’s work and connect with her, please visit www.bonamkim.com.