On Rose | Mari Corpus | Futari no Mariko

Mari Corpus

Futari no Mariko

13x19

Artist Statement

During my senior year at UC Santa Cruz, I took an intensive photography class where I
focused on taking portraits of Asians in America. My hope was to portray us as complex
yet relatable human beings in a world where racial discrimination and hate unfortunately
still exist. I was presented with a Dean’s Award for this work when I graduated.
“Futari no Mariko” is one of four diptychs that received the most praise in my series. My
family and I came across these beautiful film prints of my Grandma Mari (my namesake)
after she passed away. I scanned and retouched them as they had worn down with age.
I then took portraits of myself in similar poses with similar lighting. It has been many
years after graduating and many more years since her passing, but the pride and
influence of my heritage and grandma’s legacy are stronger than ever.