Familiar Stranger (Work in Progress)

In this personal project, I delve into my grandfather's life story, using it to question myths, memories, and narratives in both family and public archives. Through this exploration, the project delves into the intricate concept of family roots against the backdrop of migration and immigration experiences across different spaces and times, examining the profound impacts of colonization and political turbulence on personal and collective histories.

This project marks a departure from my previous photographic style. By blending family photos, public archives, online images, and sewing techniques, I created 3D photo objects to bridge the gap between past narratives and present interpretations. Taiwan's history of colonization since the 1600s provides the backdrop for exploring the identity struggles within my culture and my own identity, particularly after immigrating to the United States in the mid-90s. These struggles are shaped by a blend of reclaimed cultures, propaganda, erasure, and assimilation.

Born during the Imperial Japanese Occupation, my grandfather's life journey intersected with significant historical events, from Imperial Qing rule to surviving World War II, navigating post-WWII political landscapes and unrest in Taiwan. Returning post-WWII, my grandfather's role as a liaison officer for the United Nations and university lecturer was overshadowed by suspicions of political involvement during the 228 Incident and the subsequent martial law period in Taiwan.

Through reimagining oral histories, archival materials, and internet discoveries, I attempt to piece together and recreate my grandfather's life story, shedding light on the blend of fact and folklore that intertwines to create his enigmatic legacy.

Family Home 3

Family Home 3

Family Home 1

Family Home 1

Family Home 2

Family Home 2

Dummy book cover & back cover

Dummy book cover & back cover

erased

erased

a memo to Americans

a memo to Americans

remains

remains

The 7-word marriage announcement

The 7-word marriage announcement

President’s memo

President’s memo

I can't speak to my grandmother

I can't speak to my grandmother

bound

bound