American Dream

Photographed in New York City, NY, and Chicago, IL, United States · September 2026

American Dream is a photographic series made in New York City and Chicago. Seven photographs bring together immigrant families, people earning a living on the street, calls for support from people experiencing homelessness, and public expressions of faith. Through these individual encounters, the work considers the distance between the promise of the American Dream and the everyday pursuit of livelihood, shelter, and belonging.

A 37-year-old father from Colombia is raising his two-year-old son on his own. This is his second year in the United States.

A two-year-old boy lives in Chicago with his 37-year-old father, who is from Colombia and is raising him on his own. This is his father’s second year in the United States.

A 43-year-old man from Guanajuato, Mexico, runs a souvenir stand for tourists in Chicago. He has lived in the United States for more than 20 years.

People experiencing homelessness take part in a “Hungry for Justice” hunger strike in Long Island City, calling on New York State to provide greater protection and assistance. The photograph was made on the second day of their hunger strike.

Costumed street performers in Times Square make their way home after work. They earn a living from tips for posing with tourists, typically receiving US$10–20 per photograph.

An independent street evangelist shares the Christian gospel in Times Square.

A 27-year-old mother from Egypt holds her three-year-old son. Behind them, an independent Christian evangelistic group conducts its outreach.