Portraiture, identity and the representation of Asian femininity
London based visual artist Sanaa Lee joins Underline with Ornament, a photographic series exploring cultural identity, representation and the ways Asian femininity has been shaped through inherited narratives. Working across documentary and staged portraiture, Lee combines research driven processes with visual storytelling, creating images that are both personal and socially informed.
Ornament
Drawing inspiration from Anne Anlin Cheng’s concept of “ornament”, this series examines how Asian women have historically been framed through aesthetics and visual representation. Through portraits informed by personal experience and close relationships, Lee reflects on the intersection of identity, heritage and perception. The work responds to enduring stereotypes while creating space for more nuanced and self determined narratives.
Ornament is Sanaa Lee’s first project on Underline. Explore the full series and visit her contributor profile to find out more.
