Unity of the Universe (VI)

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In North American society, Asian and Black people can still be considered minority to some extent. This is due to the rooted white supremacy under the superficial diversity and multiculturalism in North America, which is caused by the history of the society being ruled by the white elite class. Prior to 21st century, the multiculturalism we had was mainly based on assimilation, the ruling class was trying to genocide other cultures. An example of this would be the history of residential school in Canada. Then, after 2000, the multiculturalism has gradually shifted from assimilation to a model based on tolerated ignorance. As the name suggests, this model only tolerates the ignorance of other ethnicities, but we still don’t really understand each others. That is why there are still many issues related to ethnicities. Also, I personally find it hard to gain deep relationship with people with different cultural background.

Back in the 90s, the fashion industry was dominated by white people and Vogue covers from the era were almost all with white female models. As I identify myself as both a fashion photographer and lens based artist, I decided to use some elements related with fashion as symbolizers of the cultural issue. ​ Part 1: Intro to a Paradox (Photo 1&2) Black and Asian models, in white snow, wearing white clothing, even having white "masks" on their face. These resemble the efforts they make in order to fit into the white dominated society. Part 2: Secession and Succession (Photo 3&4) However, despite all the efforts, they are still not fully accepted into the society. Vogue covers from the 90s are used as symbolizers for the racial issue. Part 3: Unity of the Universe (Photo 5&6) This part has a different vibe to the previous two, as it presents an utopian society where people from different ethnicities no longer need a mask or any forms of assimilation. The red silk, which is used at traditional Chinese weddings, is used as a symbolizer of love and unity. This project is meant to address the still existing unfairness to Asian and Black people, and to promote a true multiculturalism society where every ethnicity is equal. Additional Credit: Stylist/Wardrobe Designer: Josie Eccleston. Hair/Makeup Artist: Amy Amitha. Models: Divine and Anna, Courtesy of WANT Management.

Where it's been: GradEx 108, OCAD University Ada Slaight Critique Gallery.

Digital version published on Rebel Magazine.