Change will not arrive here by chance. We need to show up and do the work.
Jadyn Chen
As Humans began as an illustration project in June, 2020, in the middle of a pandemic and at the start of one of the largest social movements in history. I was navigating a personal shift in identity and learning how to regain pride in my ethnicity. Through a very small share to friends, the topic of “I have two names” opened up a conversation that made me realize one very powerful thing—I am not alone.
What started as a simple illustrated portrait project quickly evolved into a series of prompts and a spontaneous domain purchase. Incredibly, within the first week, 6 interviews were recorded, and a handful more queued up. The velocity of friends and family eager to share intimate moments of their life was astounding.
For starters, thank you to everyone who has participated, shared, learned, and read. Special thanks to my friends Vincent Beck, Kristine Miller, and Kyle Seibel for helping in the early stages. To everyone reading, I want to say wholeheartedly that this project is for you, but I'd be lying—selfishly it's for me too. I've learned so much from you and am amazed by how courageously people can open up.
As Humans is the combination of art and storytelling. It's a small way I feel like I can contribute my skillsets to the good of the world, and combine it with the words you've agreed to share with me. As Humans was created with the intent of creating a safe space for people to be vulnerable, from every background, with two primary focuses: representation and eliminating bias. I want to get to know you. As Humans is not designed with the intent to only showcase one way of thinking. It should not isolate. The entire point of this project is to talk to everyone, especially that person who doesn't think like you.
As always, if you'd like to participate and exchange your words for your own portrait, please go to the Contact page and fill out the form. I’m looking forward to hearing from you!
Thank you all. Hope you've been learning more about yourselves, as humans.
We urge you to do your own research, support each other, and stand for what you believe to be right.
If you find yourself wondering how to help each other, here’s a small list to start with:
Find organizations you like and support them with your time, money, or resources.
Educate yourself on what to say and do—and what not to say and do.
Know the signs of microaggressions, and speak out when you see them happen.
Words matter—both what you say and how you say it. Make sure to be mindful of your word choice and delivery.
Start crucial conversations with your friends, family, and colleagues.
Do the research—read books, watch films, and listen to podcasts.
Commit to learning and growing.
Listen, listen, listen.
The Process
Each interview is recorded over Zoom and transcribed via an automated transcription service. On average, the interviews last around an hour, and we may discuss whatever topic you’d like. You will also be asked to share a photo of yourself. Following the automated transcription, I review and proof-read to catch anything that was missed, before sending the transcript back to the you. You may edit the transcript however you see fit, while I work on your portrait. The team is small: it’s just me and you. It’s an incredibly rewarding and quick process, operating on a tight turnaround of one story a week.
The Questions:
What does home mean to you?
What does community mean to you?
What are you most afraid of right now?
What’s the happiest moment of your life?
What’s the saddest moment of your life?
Who is the most influential person in your life?
Have you ever experienced prejudice? How?
Have you ever thought about privilege? How?
What was one pivotal moment in your life? How did it influence you?
Where are you from? How has being from your home shaped who you are today?
What’s one thing that always reminds you of home?
What’s something that you’ve accomplished that you’re proud of?
What’s something about yourself that you don’t like talking about? (Optional)
What is one thing you wish you could share about your culture with the world?
What would people be surprised to know about you?