It has been 40 years since the very first Hmong refugee stepped out of a metal bird and onto the foreign and free land called America. Since then, the concept of the American Dream has deeply influenced the livelihood of Hmong families and individuals in a variety of ways. In Pillow Project, I ask Hmong individuals about their dreams. Koj txoj kev npau suav yog dab tsi? What is your dream? Using objects to illustrate or symbolize their dream I have the participant place the objects on their pillow. Carefully working with the natural light in the room, I photograph the pillow from an aerial perspective. This photograph documents the dialogue we shared and also heightens the act of defining their dream. Like choosing words and diction carefully as if they were writing in a personal journal, the subject uses the objects and composition to create an experience and tangible nature of their dream.

Hennessy, UX, and Photography
Joungkong Y. // 22

 

 

 

 

 

Theater 

Chufue Y. // 13

 

 

 

 

 

 

Making people laugh. Technology. Money.

Chali Y. // 11

 

 

 

 

 

When will he marry me? 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Glamour

Pakou X. // 22

 

 

 

 

 

 

A day when we won't have to worry about tomorrow.

Laichee Y. // 20