Ancient Chinese philosophy left an indelible mark on the American consciousness with the introduction of the yin & yang symbol; a simple circle split in two by darkness and light. Over time, it would become the popular and de facto metaphor for the concept of dualism in life. Contrary forces complement, and the whole of something becomes greater than the sum of its parts.
Chinatown, a 24-block sanctuary for some and a coveted destination for others, is a storied district full of history. Cast as a gilded ghetto, it would become recognized as a cultural landmark in the decades to follow. Touristy shops catering to visiting expectations exist a block away from architecture and markets inspired by the Easterm mainland. This series aims to compare and contrast the performative with the organic, and to present them side by side. Out of this cohabited existence arises something new.