Celeste Noche
Overland, Overseas
Today, an estimated 15 million Filipinos live outside of the Pacific archipelago. Many are overseas workers, and even more are the descendants whose ancestors left the motherland– for opportunity, for survival, or for a new start. After centuries of colonization and a continued battle for the autonomy of a peaceful homeland, Filipinos find themselves all over the world making a home where they might never have imagined.
In the Pacific Northwest and more specifically Portland, Oregon, we’re exploring what it means to carry on our ancestral legacies without the immediate ties to our lands and seas. With respect for the people who have stewarded the land before us, we choreograph the balance of setting down roots– finding space for our own growth between what’s already planted and how we might still bloom in our own way.
With a nod to classical Filipino paintings by Fernando Amorsolo, these portraits are an homage to carrying on the culture, the quiet resilience of Filipino women, no matter where we find ourselves.
Creative director, photographer, producer: Celeste Noche
Styling and wardrobe: Rodellee Bas of Atèlette
Models: Alexa Domenden, Jane Barmore, Nicole Manguramas
Assist and BTS: Kyle Beltran
Film Develop and Scans: Citizens Photo
Film Stock: Kodak Portra 400 and 800
