Mexican author Carlos Fuentes encourages us to “Recognize yourself in he and she who are not like you and me.” This sentiment is at the heart of the exhibition: to open the archive of strangers through photographs taken by local refugees and immigrants—those that have had to leave everything behind, including treasured family photos that connect them to their loved ones.

The stories of refugee and immigrant families are often boxed away and invisible to many Americans. This exhibition is an attempt to open the box and reveal that which is hidden inside. The themes and narratives, once released in the form of pictures, will help us to better understand their experience. The hopes, dreams, and desires of immigrants are not different than the rest of America–we have shared experiences. Their photographs oblige us to consider their story and, hopefully, compel us to greater understanding and compassion.

Featured Artists: Luke Kellett, Sodiq Onanuga, Bhim Rai, Bhimla Rai, and Lourdes Santos