Gradual Ascent Short Film

Four couples. Four relationships. Four stories.

Earlier this year, as part of a photography show for Augsburg Gallery, I was tasked with capturing small moments of connection during this ever-changing time. My relationships, both plutonic and romantic, changed so much during this time. Most notably, I fell in love (first real queer relationship lol) with a white girl (lol x2). Since we’ve known each other, Grace and I have been forced to have hard conversations neither of us have had to have previous partners. She’s been my steadfast partner and support during this complex time in my ~identity journey~ like during the the aftermath of the uprising, the launch of PLACED, and the impact of Atlanta and #StopAsianHate. Queer love is so tender and soft which is what has steered these conversations with (dare I say?) grace and love.

I’m always looking for creative extensions beyond a photography project as a way to try new things and push myself. And so, I made a short film to accompany the photographs from this project.

In this film we see Micah & Shira, who met in New York right before the pandemic, bravely venture into a long distance relationship, Monet navigate her newfound queer identity with Amanda at her side, Lauren and Wylee, polyamorous friends and lovers, who were separated much of lockdown, and lastly Nadi and Cal, who learned the importance of teamwork and resiliency.

Gradual Ascent celebrates intimacy and connection within interracial, queer relationships.

See the work in-person, along with the work of the other 11 photographers, in May 2022.