My ‘American Mosaic’ series explores heritage and multicultural identity in America. As immigrants or indigenous natives, we Americans are bound mostly by our beliefs and ideals, rather than a shared ethnic or cultural history. The ‘melting pot’ metaphor is being replaced by new metaphors like ‘mosaic’, which suggest an integration that preserves each culture’s unique qualities rather than promoting one homogenous culture. Photographs in the series were taken at cultural festivals and celebrations in America, where heritage and traditions are taught, celebrated, and remembered. I believe we can all benefit from the beauty and wisdom of myriad cultures and age-old traditions as we try to build a pluralistic society.
