I am in my final year pursuing a dual degree in Moving-Image Production, with a minor in Film Studies, and Spanish at The Ohio State University. I am motivated by my passion for minority representation in media, both in front of and behind the camera. My background in fiction and experimental filmmaking constitutes an important asset in my approach to push the boundaries of form in nonfiction films. I strive to use my newfound passion for nonfiction filmmaking to connect communities of diverse backgrounds and create mutually fulfilling relationships. My goals in filmmaking are to provoke a range of complex and abstract emotional responses from the audience, to elicit important conversations, usually around social issues, and make underrepresented groups feel seen, empowered, and appreciated. I often aim to challenge the thinking of my audience through implicit themes and messages.
The bulk of my work often consists of addressing intersectional diverse experiences or social justice issues of minority groups. I utilize my ability to make art as a method to process, portray, and reflect upon the deeply nuanced experiences I have lived as a bisexual transracially adopted Chinese woman and their effects on my mental health. Moreover, I find it most rewarding when I can use my filmmaking skills to collaborate with other minorities in expressing their own experiences and creating something meaningful for their communities to connect upon.
My current project, my senior thesis film, is a personal documentary focused on my experiences growing up as a transracial/transnational adoptee & how they continue to affect me today. I challenge the mainstream narrative of gratitude & explore the spaces to acknowledge the trauma of adoption. While reminiscing now as a young adult about to enter a new stage of life and the world, I am able to be proud of the journey I have taken to get from the mindset of shame and self-hate to acceptance and empowerment. Moreover, in the heat of our changing environment surrounding issues of injustice, trauma, and healing, I have been able to improve the relationship with my parents and mutual recognition of our similarities and differences. Therefore to take on this project, I could not be more ready, mentally and emotionally, but also practically as a culminating piece of all my previous work as a filmmaker.
My plans are to continue my work in community-based nonfiction films in the near future by continuing my search for meaningful engagement with people and cultures all over the world – primarily Central/South America and Asia, after graduation.