Through the use of archival images, Piecing Together Your Story documents my grandparents’ immigration from Poland to Canada. The images are printed on transparent fabric to evoke the idea of memory, as memory is imperfect and unclear as to what it actually is. The black-and-white images, overlaid with the archival, are a reflection of the home they lived in and in which I continue to live. In piecing together the pictures and moments my grandparents shared within the walls of my home, they serve to reflect on all the generations that grew up in this home, and all the memories and laughter that was shared. It wasn’t until last year that I found an entire suitcase filled with documents, letters, and old photos from Poland and the home I live in. It made me realize how much I missed out on by not asking my grandmother the many questions I now have, leaving me wondering and trying to piece together my grandparents’ story.
Undoubtedly, this work is personal to me and my family. Sadly, my grandfather passed away when my mother was young and all I have are pictures, stories and notes to understand who he was. My grandmother passed away five years ago, peacefully at home on Christmas Eve. She was my second mother but she didn’t talk much about her past, especially about the war or her coming to Canada. But she did everything and more to make everyone around her happy and smiling. There was never a day when the house was empty with not a single person visiting or stopping by for some coffee, and there were countless meals shared with family and friends. The year my grandmother passed away I was 16, and a month later I decided to have a constant reminder of her by getting a happy face tattoo on my forearm, based on the drawings she used to autograph all her birthday cards. Following that, I got a Canon film camera tattoo in memory of my grandfather that is placed right under the happy face, and the camera he used can be seen in the image that holds all his items.
Overall, Piecing Together Your Story invites reflection on the importance of archival photographs and documents. Without archival images and documents, we would never be able to comprehend the experiences and actions of our ancestors that shaped who we are today.
Angelica is an emerging photographer based in Toronto, specializing in commercial, event, and portrait photography. She uses her skills and passion for photography to create striking images that showcase her creativity and unique perspective.