When I get asked the question “Where are you from?”, I’m often taken aback and unsure what to say.

My identity has been shaped by the experience of growing up in two opposing worlds: Manila and Melbourne, and trying to belong to the latter has been somewhat of a challenging task.

Asian Fusion is a recollection of the Asian-Australian experience — where, through efforts by the West to try to understand the ‘Asian way’ (usually passed off as harmless questions or compliments), leaves a subtle — yet lasting — unpleasant effect on the formation of one’s identity.

The publication sees the awkward mish-mash of nostalgic elements, serving as a metaphor for the awkward, yet interesting, experience of growing up Asian in Australia.

Insights to the project can be viewed here.
“No, no. Where are you really from?”