When we look at someone, we take notice of things and make assumptions. But often what we assume is not how a person perceives themselves. Something different lies beneath the surface, waiting to be revealed…

Sitting With Myself is a research project by Span, conceived by John Pobojewski, LaSean Marie Patton, and Chicago photographer Leah Wendzinski. 21 volunteers from different points of view were interviewed and photographed in early August 2021. This site is a time capsule of different explorations of personal and perceived identity. All testimonials are in the individual’s own words but have been edited for brevity.

Span prioritizes self-initiated projects and research initiatives that cultivate new ideas, bridge different ways of thinking, and challenge expectations about the role of design.

Site designed by Cheryl Kao and built by Brett Burwell