Private Story
Transcend
Artist Statement
“My adult child came out recently as queer, transgender, non-binary. I was surprised but took me no time to embrace my child as who they are. I am there for my child in the delicate transition of identity, psychological complexity, depression, challenge and discrimination. My love for my child is infinite and unconditional; we are very close and always will be. I support them and hope our example will help others.” – Sandra Chen Weinstein
This is a story of relationship but most importantly, love. “Transcend” is a very personal project begun in 2016. It is a collection of portraits of people and their families, including my own, from diverse LGBTQ community. Like me, parents and family have gone through a lengthy and sometimes difficult time with their loved ones through some struggles during the transition of their child feeling “lost and found”. Sadly, however, a number of families have left their children to struggle on their own because they cannot accept such changes. Parents who support their child are constantly in living fear for their child because the discrimination and retribution.
The series of images are also displayed with their own quotes about themselves and their loved ones. Personal stories will be featured on pages of the book when published. My goal is to unveil and celebrate the identity for people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer with families, friends, and allies showing unconditional love and equality. The work seeks to aid social justice against stereotype and stigma long existed. Though the lens, I would like to unite and make connection of the growing needs in positive exposure in our society.
140
