A new exhibit a the Jacksonville's Museum of Science and History gives an inside look at this area’s Filipino community — with a focus on its women.
Photographer Agnes Lopez, a Filipino American woman who grew up in Jacksonville, says her goal was to highlight the artists in her community in a way that’s not been done before.
"I think that there are so many talented artists here in Jacksonville," Lopez said. "And my goal was to highlight some of them that tend to hide."
According to the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville, more than 33,000 Filipino Americans call Jacksonville home, the largest Asian population in the city. Filipinos also make up the largest population of immigrants to the city.
MOSH is presenting Lopez’s works to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Portraits make up dual shows, titled “I am Here” and “The Pinay Project.”
“These Filipino women are here in our community," Lopez said. "And I think it’s great to see their point of view and how they feel about things.
As a Filipino American, Lopez says she learned much about herself and her heritage.
“Being a photographer, I learned how important it is that I have this skill and how important it is for me to use it and to showcase our community," she said.
