Bourbon Street is a historic corridor in New Orleans that spans 13 blocks.
“I was working as a tattoo artist but then my teacher died.” After moving on from carpentry, Troy began to apprentice as a tattoo artist. He loved the work until his friend and teacher suddenly died. Now he only tattoos friends on special occasions.
With approximately 50-60 bars and night clubs, Bourbon Street is one of New Orleans' main tourist hubs.
“I’d prefer to work at a bar that locals go to. You meet people, you make relationships and connections.” The Swamp is predominantly frequented by tourists.
“I’m working from 8pm today until 6am tomorrow, then they need me back at the bar at 11am to work a shift until 7pm.” Troy often works consecutive shifts of up to ten hours, with just a few hours in between for self care.
Troy’s partner, Tay, is also a service industry worker. Previously a photographer, she now works at Larry Flynt's Hustler Club on Bourbon Street as a stripper.
On a rare night off from work, Troy visits a local skate shop to celebrate the birthday of his friend, Lucid.
The Swamp was recently taken over by new management, there’s fierce competition and Troy often finds himself working an empty bar.
In New Orleans, pinning dollar bills to the shirt of a person celebrating their birthday is a common tradition.
“I’ve worked with my hands my whole life. I started with carpentry, then there was tattoos, and now working at the bars.”
“The new owners don’t know what they’re doing and they don’t listen to us.”
Troy’s career began as a carpenter, he loved working with his hands but it was tough on his body and he found that the air was bad for his lungs.
Troy is in a leadership program for service industry workers. For him, the program represents hope, growth, and opportunity.
“I’ve never felt so seen and cared about by a group of people who don’t know anything about me.”