Asian Archives: Home for memories

THE CHALLENGE

In 2020, the rise of violence and discrimination against Asian communities in the U.S. reached alarming levels, instilling a deep sense of fear, isolation, and anger. As curators, William Oh, Sissi Lu, and Jonathan Bach recognized an urgent need to reclaim the narrative and provide a platform for Asian photographers to share their personal stories.

The Asian Archives project sought to do more than just display photographs; it aimed to spotlight AAPI photographers' reflections on identity, culture, and the challenges they faced during this turbulent time of heightened racial tension.

THE SCOPE

The project’s goal was to redesign the Asian Archives website, presenting the artwork and stories from Asian photographers in a more organized and compelling way.

This project was not just about showcasing art, but about creating a space for reflection, vulnerability, and resilience.

THE RESULTS

We began by making the website accessible to a broader audience, adding the option to change the site’s language to ensure the stories could be understood by everyone, including members of the AAPI community.

To improve the user experience, we introduced a structured menu that made navigating the site intuitive, allowing users to easily explore stories, learn about the project, and even submit their own content.

Through a thoughtful redesign of the website’s layout and user experience, we created more than just a digital gallery, we established a space for community healing, storytelling, and connection, where each photographer's narrative could shine.