Nomination: Bachelor Research & Hybrid Publishing Award 2018
A family is not always what they seem in family portraits. Being a Cross-Cultural Individual can become confusing because your identity is constantly questioned. Not belonging to one particular group causes feelings of detachment and uncertainty. Individuals can experience Constant Culture Shock throughout their lives as they navigate between cultures.
The current idea of belonging refers to one place, one community. This is not necessarily true for those culturally mixed. For them, home is a multitude of places and communities, not necessarily defined by countries' borders or cultures and traditions. With growing polarisation throughout the world, it seems only logical that we should investigate how we can implement Cultural Intelligence into our daily lives. I believe Cross-Cultural Individuals are more prone to learning Cultural Intelligence as they are constantly being made aware of their cultural identity.
The Family of Strangers aims to provide a place of recognition and acknowledgement for those who feel mixed, in-between and uncategorised. A place for experiences and stories to be told and hopefully also a message shared, of a better intercultural communication.
Over the course of eight months, I have scouted for people who look like I do, going about their daily lives. I invite them into my living room and together we make a family portrait. This book is a recollection of my artistic process.
Join the conversation. Join the family!
