Celebrating Asian American Identity Through Andrew Kung’s Everyday Space Photography

Perpetual Foreigner: Celebrating Asian American Joy

In his remarkable series titled “Perpetual Foreigner,” photographer Andrew Kung captures the essence of Asian American experiences with a focus on joy and intimacy. His works create a powerful narrative that resonates with the often-overlooked stories of Asian Americans.

The Narrative Behind the Lens

Kung aims to present a multifaceted view of Asian American life by showcasing candid moments that embody love and connection. Through his art, he challenges the traditional stereotypes and prompts the viewer to reconsider the concept of American identity.

A Closer Look at the Series

In this image, photographer Andrew Kung aimed to highlight Asian American joy as his models played football.
In this image, photographer Andrew Kung aimed to highlight Asian American joy as his models played football.
Kung photographed his girlfriend Kathleen Namgung against an American flag.
Kung photographed his girlfriend Kathleen Namgung against an American flag.
Kung recreates his vision of the 'all-American' family in this beach portrait, captured in Queens at dusk.
Kung recreates his vision of the ‘all-American’ family in this beach portrait, captured in Queens at dusk.
Kung depicts his friend Amrit enjoying one of America's favorite pastimes: fishing.
Kung depicts his friend Amrit enjoying one of America’s favorite pastimes: fishing.
A photograph of the American flag that Kung said sets 'the context of Asian Americans existing in these spaces.'
A photograph of the American flag that Kung said sets ‘the context of Asian Americans existing in these spaces.’
One of Kung's models sits in the back of a pickup truck in fishing boots.
One of Kung’s models sits in the back of a pickup truck in fishing boots.
Kung said that portraits of his parents, taken at a Brooklyn park, show 'natural expressions of what intimacy and love looks like.'
Kung said that portraits of his parents, taken at a Brooklyn park, show ‘natural expressions of what intimacy and love looks like.’

Conclusion

Andrew Kung’s “Perpetual Foreigner” illustrates the complexity of Asian American narratives, emphasizing moments of joy and connection. This series serves as an invitation for viewers to reflect on their understanding of American identity in a diverse society.


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