In southern Alberta, or what some un-affectionately call “the Texas of Canada”, sits Calgary. A city abundant in cowboy boots, oil money, and joke politicians. Yet and still, the place which birthed Ted Cruz (yes, really) and gave rise to fascist girl-boss Danielle Smith is housing something better beneath the surface.

To be a Punk is in the sound, the look, and the spirit. A refusal to accept stagnant norms and a rabid commitment to your community.

Taking up space is Punk. Not taking any shit is Punk. Looking after each other is Punk.

In Calgary, photographer Marissa Ruggles navigates crowded venues with her camera, capturing a counterculture at its most organic. This series, appropriately titled PUNK, reveals the diversity, the fervor, and the humanity of the Calgary PUNK.