Description:

As a European living in Aotearoa, I feel disconnected from any culture. Other ethnicities have inspiring connections to their heritage. With traditions, songs and stories that bond individuals to their ancestors. My ancestors have stories–but they have been diluted–by the years that separate us. Often lost after they pass on. 'I’m Just White' is an investigation into my heritage. A journey undertaken with the hopes of creating a bond with my ancestors. Understanding my roots in order to help my families’ culture flourish and to foster a sense of pride for my heritage.

The main methodology utilised throughout this project was conversation. Reaching out to family members and having genuine conversations about what they knew about their ancestors, feeding off their excitement–creating a really solid body of knowledge and collating any images or paraphernalia.

The most rewarding outcome of this project has been sharing the publication with my immediate and extended family, it’s the laughs we shared, and the tears. It’s the new found fire to accomplish something that one day my descendants might be proud of, as I have been proud of my ancestors.

The care and genuine curiosity that went into this project resulted in a body of information and a custom typeface that not only expanded my knowledge about my family and where I come from, but fostered an unexpected bond to these family members–and a true sense of pride.

I am not, JUST white.