Society of 23
But we were together, and out of this fraternity something binding might come, to give us some sort of a foothold in America. —Filipino-American writer Carlos Bulosan in America is in the Heart
At the heart of my work is the Society of 23, a fictional brotherhood where I portray all 23 mysterious gentlemen. This ongoing project examines themes of community, individuality, and societal constructs. Inspired by my experiences of marginalization and belonging, the brotherhood becomes a metaphor for America and its complexities, contradictions, and aspirations, as well as my own navigation of cultural dualities, conflicts, and connections.
composite, 2008. Mixed media. 38" x 46" x 3/4".
Society of 23's Locker Dressing Room, 2017. Mixed-media installation. 20' x 25'. Click here to go inside the installation.
Society of 23's Trophy Game Room, 2021. Mixed-media installation. Click here to go inside the installation.
Society of 23's Instagram account, ongoing. Follow the brotherhood at @societyof23.
The Anthem, 2017. Photograph on fleece. 60" x 80".
posters, 2010. Ink on paper. 25" x 60".
clown (Justin Gabriel), clown (Daniel Tyler), clown (Nicholas Jose), 2009. Digital photograph. Dimensions variable.