What do you think of us? A Thesis.
For my thesis, I dove into how the model minority myth affects Asian Americans, especially those who grew up in the U.S. It’s a mix of personal stories, research, and design, all aimed at challenging the stereotype that we all fit into one perfect mold. Through this project, I used design to contradict the myth and tell real stories to spark conversation about identity, experience, and the pressures that come with this myth. It’s a look at how design can be a tool for change—informing, connecting, and creating space for new narratives.
For a thesis rooted in identity, memory, and unlearning, I didn’t want something distant or digital-only. I wanted something people could feel. Something that made sense for stories that are quiet, complicated, and personal. Also, there’s just something kind of poetic about making a physical archive in a world that’s trying to forget us.
Art direction
For this project, I led the creative direction, designing clothing that visually represents the core themes of my thesis. I assembled and managed a talented team of creatives, including photographers, hair and makeup artists, assistants, and models, coordinating every aspect of the shoot and project timeline. I also curated a 45-page publication that ties together the research, stories, and visuals, while crafting a cohesive campaign to amplify the message.
Environment Curation
I did it all—hair, makeup, styling, clothing design, props, photography, layout. Every piece you see was built from scratch to create a world that feels honest to my thesis. This isn’t just visual support; it’s an extension of the message. Worldbuilding as protest, as storytelling, as care.
