A lifelong Bay Area resident, I discovered my interest in photography while studying abroad at a public high school in Lille, France, where I used the camera to meet new friends and better understand the culture. Back home, my interest in politics led me to photograph important events in our town, including the release of toxic fumes from a Valero refinery, and a student-led protest against cuts in high school arts funding. My first hand experience working between activists and the establishment led me to believe in the role of the artist in promoting potential futures. I wanted to spread the ideas I was so inspired by, to spark new conversations with a wider audience. At MassArt, my current project explores the connection between institutions, memory, myth and our identities. Through this work, I hope viewers will consider how our identities are shaped and inspire movement towards a more tolerant and liberated future.