Tell us about your project. What inspired the idea?

The photo series started with my research into vintage family photos from the 1950s/’60s, where I was struck by the casual presence of priests at family gatherings and community events. It inspired me to look for parallels in my contemporary coming-of-age and consider how the media representation of femininity in my upbringing shaped my self-image the same way the church shaped past generations’ views of the world. The film, however, evolved from a self-portrait installation I exhibited at the SVA Chelsea Gallery in 2022, where I tried to look past the gendered perceptions of my body to depict my inner self.

What most surprised you once you started working on the project?

It may be silly, but I was surprised by how much people wanted to be involved in the piece. My work is incredibly personal and sometimes feels very internal to me, so it was a pleasant surprise to have so many collaborators understand the vision and be eager to come on board.

What was a highlight of living and studying in New York City?

My family is originally from New York, and I’ve been living in the city for over 10 years, but it never stops inspiring me. Aside from the incredibly dense landscape of art that has been essential to my academic growth, I think there is a unique queer community here that has been so meaningful to me personally and fostered my artwork in really important ways.

What is something you learned at SVA that you’ll always take with you?

Don’t shy away from doing work because you fear how people will respond to it. People can misread anything, so trying to plan around that will only hold you back. If you believe in an idea, odds are more people will get it than you think.

Was there a teacher or course that was essential for you?

There have been a few, but I think Ben Hagari’s video installation course and Natasha Chuk’s writing courses were the most impactful. Ben allowed me to try new formats I hadn’t considered before, and Natasha was so encouraging at every turn.

What’s a favorite piece of advice that a teacher or student shared with you?

I think the simplest thing was that Grahame Weinbren and Charles Traub constantly reminded me that if you’re not giving it your all, what’s the point? Being in school is a unique opportunity to spend time and resources you may never have again on doing artwork that is just for you, and you shouldn’t waste that.

What advice do you have for next year’s students in your program?

Two seemingly contradictory things. One, you should try to do the most ambitious thing you can actually finish for your thesis. It must be accomplished, but if it’s not the most exciting thing you’ve done so far, you’ll regret not going for it. Two, take a break. Go to sleep. Cut yourself some slack.

Features

The recently graduated MFA Photography, Video, and Related Media student talks about her thesis project, a short film and corresponding photo series.