My America project has been a culmination of 12 years of work, spanning vast distances to capture the essence of this diverse nation. Drawing inspiration from Richard Avedon, Edward Hopper, Robert Frank, and William Eggleston, my goal was to explore the intricate threads of American culture. With six extensive journeys undertaken, I gained profound insights into the ethos and pathos that shape the nation. One striking aspect that emerged prominently was the prevalent issue of gun ownership, symbolizing freedom to many in America, where the number of firearms often surpasses the human population itself.

The portraits serve as a reflection of America. Each person, drawn from diverse backgrounds, becomes a distinct individual rather than a mere statistic when captured in a brief moment. Against the grey backdrop that removes social labels, they embody the diverse American population.

Street corners, crossings, swimming pools, and roads are the fabric of society and where life collides. From the simple kerb stone or pavement to the vistas of Yosemite, these are all part of the building blocks of the great American dream. The more I covered the project, the more I felt that so much was not being said about the lack of gun control. The issue is so perplexing and politicised that it left a deep question mark on my project.

I believe photography often becomes overly focused on technical perfection, prioritizing sharpness and flawless prints handled with extreme care. My approach diverges from this norm, influenced by Cornelia Parker's 'Cold Dark Matter' exhibited at Tate Britain. Witnessing that piece deeply impacted me, sparking the idea to infuse my images with a sense of disturbance. The bullets fired at the work are the parody that is happening across America. This unconventional method intrigued me as a way to provoke discomfort and challenge the conventional portrayal of the American dream.

The current American zeitgeist may conflict with its image; its constitution could hinder progress. Despite this, the people and places I encountered were inspiring. I realized political motives often overlook the populace's true needs, a common issue in Western politics.