This blog will complement my photographic work on the Chinatowns of the United States & Canada, starting with the first solo exhibition of the project at Craig Krull Gallery in Santa Monica, CA. The imagery stands on its own but my travels through over 50 Chinatowns in the last fifteen+ years and the stories of those whom I have met as well as the many organizations involved with this history and continuing present deserve attention. I am eager to share my journey.

Thursday, September 28, 2023

 CHECKING IN FROM 2017 ...


It has been too long and yet, FINDING CHINATOWN: AN AMERICAN STORY continues.  

I was in Detroit. last week, the end of another longterm project, to photograph my 20th visit there and at the top of my list, a search for what remains, so little of the Chinese presence in that city.  My first photograph there, way back in 2011 was of the dark, cold (January) street on Cass where once the Chinese community first flourished.  Today all that's left is the sign, "Welcome to ... "

That said, Detroit hold surprises and for me, this trip was to a decrepit old building behind fences, the old STanley Hong Mannia (Manilla) Cafe, know as a great Chinese restaurant and entertainment venue.  

It's been purchased now and about to be renovated. Its history: Owned by a Chinese immigrant to Detroit, and with the help of Nathan Johnson, a known Black architect of the city, the Chinese restaurant was a busy gathering place for Detroit.  It's google architecture attracted many and along with his brothers, STanley Hong attracted musical acts, hiphop stars and others to a terrific DEtroit scene.  https://www.metrotimes.com/music/music-venue-at-former-chinese-restaurant-with-ties-to-detroit-hip-hop-clears-historic-district-commission-28596162

Jen Lyons, a NY/Detroit promoter is planning to bring back the magic ...







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