A home of many rooms

What pieces or projects have you been working on lately?
Lately I have been spending a lot of time within my own archive of work, which is comprised entirely of 35mm film photography. I find that I benefit when I give myself time and space away from my images so that I can revisit them with fresh eyes. The act of being reflective is a crucial part of my creative process, and I love seeing what images I gravitate towards, as well as what new themes and feelings emerge as I revisit them after some time.

What did you learn (or unlearn) while working on them?
I am trying to be a little kinder to myself in my criticisms of my work. As I primarily shoot film, some of my earliest works reflect the learning curve that comes with film as a medium. In revisiting my images, I am trying to hold more grace for the process, gratitude for all that I have learned, and to be a little gentler in my critiques!

What words, ideas or emotions were going through your head?
Some words that come to mind right away are hope, joy, nostalgia, and gratitude. Revisiting work can trigger so many emotions; some new, some old, but I am of the belief that the best works make you feel something, so I am appreciative of the breadth of feelings that have come to the surface in this process.

Were there any conversations, movies, music, or books that made their way into that work?
I live in the US, and it goes without saying that the US continues to be a topic of conversation globally for many unfortunate and tragic reasons. Naturally, a consequence of this is that I have been engaged in many conversations with those around me. There are a few themes that continue to emerge, specifically regarding place, identity, and belonging. As I grapple with these themes on both a large and more personal scale, I find that in revisiting my work, I am drawn to images that anchor me to parts of my life that can at times feel distant, but also act as joyful reminders of memories I cherish.

What's been the most difficult thing you've faced recently in your creative process?
Admittedly, the dark, cold months of winter are where I tend to struggle the most from a creative perspective. I find it difficult to muster up the motivation to get out and shoot, especially when there is less light to chase. Digging into your own archives is a welcome practice when you are hibernating!

What is your favorite restaurant and what do you recommend we order?
My favorite restaurant tends to shift constantly, but right now I would say Naks, in NYC. Naks is a love letter to Filipino food, food that is near to my heart and which features some of my absolute favorite flavors. Every bite was sensational, and I can’t recommend it enough!

If your life were a movie this month, what would it be called and who would write the soundtrack?
A home of many rooms, soundtrack by Khruangbin.

Recommend one or more artists you follow who inspire you, and tell us what you like most about their work or their way of working.
I am constantly inspired by Annissa Durar, an incredible photographer whose style holds the stories of people and places in such a tender and poetic way.