High Low

Philippone’s portraits etched with responses to the questions, “What does America mean to you?” and “What do you hope for your future?,” gives voice to documented and undocumented teenage immigrants reflecting their aspirations in the face of the uncertainty amidst immigration policy.

Opening Reception, 1/17/20 6-9 pm
Artists’ Talk 7-7:30 pm

“American Dreams” is on view at High Low Gallery through February 28, 2020.

Artist Statement

“American Dreams” began in 2016, just after the presidential election, and immigration reform was at the top of many debates in the United States. As an artist I wanted to find a way to give a platform to the youth who were being impacted by the decisions being made and those who had a less active voice in the media.

For this body of work, I traveled to an underfunded school in middle America to take portraits of teenagers ranging in age 14-19. Although they came from many different countries, they shared the common thread of being English as a Second Language (ESL) Learners. They were seeking a better life and the elusive “American Dream” that is referenced so frequently by those in the United States.

As part of their studies in ESL, I asked each of the teens their name, birthday, native country, languages spoken, and then asked them to respond to the two questions “What Does America Mean to You?” and “What Do You Hope for Your Future?” These handwritten answers were digitized and etched onto glass sheets utilizing a laser cutter machine that is typically used for industrial manufacturing applications. The etched glass is then placed on top of the photo, and forms the unique obscurity to the image, which allows the teens to have a safe space to share their stories as both documented and undocumented immigrants of the United States.

*Special Notes:

Black and White images were taken in 2016 using traditional film.

All Color Photographs taken in 2019.

Images that have the laser etching reversed, and have more obscurity indicate that the teen photographed is no longer in the ‘system’ and had to stop attending high school prior to graduating.

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step”, or so the ancient Chinese proverb goes. Join us at our January Story Lounge to hear tales of the small steps, and even the missteps, along the way that got us to where we needed to be. Want to be on the lineup? Make sure to drop us a line ahead of time, with a DM or email to [email protected]

This event will be our first at the High Low, the cool new literary arts venue in the heart of the Grand Center Arts District.
$5 suggested donation at the door.