During the year since I moved to New York, I developed a strong interest in Times Square. I noticed a group of performers dressed in fantastic character costumes, many of whom are immigrants without American citizenship, much like myself, yet ironically performing the epitome of the American Dream. Finding a sense of community and belonging among them, I decided to actively engage with them, conducting interviews, and creating portraits of them. I interviewed them for their names, birthdays, where they're from, and their wishes. Subsequently, I playfully constructed a mock-up of a U.S. green card for each character with the information and images I collected. 

This playful and collaborative project reflects on my own identities while revealing the true stories behind the fantasy. Simultaneously, it carries a powerful message of hope: Stay Wishful, even in the face of the absurd circumstances life may present.