The American Dream - Framed Promises & Fading Walls

The American Dream - Framed Promises & Fading Walls

“I think this divide is the most pressing in our nation’s culture.”

— exerpt from the story of the photograph

A deeper look at “The American Dream”

Some artworks develop slowly—built over hours of observation, adjustment, waiting.

Others arrive in an instant, fully formed.

This was the latter.

I was driving through central Oregon farmland, a middle-of-nowhere road surrounded by dry fields and sky, when I pulled off near a decaying structure. The walls were covered in graffiti, layers of handprints and cryptic phrases. The roof was partially collapsed. It was chaos—but not without its own kind of order. A visual language had developed there, like sediment from a culture both loud and fading.

Photograph of my friend, Roman, through the windows

And then I turned.

There it was.

A picture window, cleanly framed, showing nothing but open land and soft light beyond it. In front of it: a single sunken cushion on the ground, and the phrase “BE MORE” scrawled faintly above. It hit me hard and fast. A photograph of the American Dream.

That phrase carries so much weight. We grow up hearing it. We build our lives in orbit around it. But this scene made me ask:

Where are we, really, in relation to the dream we’ve been promised?

Because here was a perfectly composed metaphor. A ruined room. A window to peace. A seat left behind. And silence.

It’s easy to imagine many meanings here. Some people will see hope: the dream is still visible. Others will see irony: a dream so close, yet unreachable. Still others might see a kind of resignation. The dream doesn’t live in a house anymore. It’s just an idea—framed but distant.

And then there’s the graffiti.

On the left: “Mute.” A single word that speaks volumes. I think of all the voices today that feel silenced—not just politically, but socially, culturally, economically. Urban voices that drown out rural ones. Rural voices dismissed as out of touch. Suburbs caught in the middle. I think about how loud everything is right now, and how little is really being heard.

On the right: “We Are Paramore.” At first, I laughed at the randomness. But then the lyric came to mind: “We are broken.” And just like that, it wasn’t random at all.
This is not just an abandoned house photograph.

It’s a frame for reflection. A question about belonging, progress, and loss.

I didn’t move anything in the scene. Didn’t step past that cushion. This had already become its own work of art—a layered collaboration between vandals, weather, time, and truth. I knew my role was simply to bear witness. To frame the frame. To give it space to speak.

The American Dream isn’t a clear answer. It’s a provocation.

A question framed in light.

A seat left empty.

And maybe a challenge to see things as they really are before we decide where to go next.

Explore the Piece

The American Dream is now available in my portfolio as a single edition, one of one, fine art print.

➡️ View The Art Work

Bonus: Behind the Lens

I also captured these two black-and-white images from that day—moments before and after this piece revealed itself.

They feel like a record of witnessing, of wandering, of what the Dream looks like from the outside.

Where was The American Dream photograph taken?

In an abandoned building off a backroad in central Oregon farmland.

What does the artwork represent?

It’s a symbolic fine art photograph reflecting on the American Dream—its promise, its distance, and our cultural relationship to it today.

3 Limited-Edition Artworks That Perfectly Complement a Bohemian Space

3 Limited-Edition Artworks That Perfectly Complement a Bohemian Space

Bohemian interiors are more than just a design style—they tell a story. They celebrate nature, adventure, and the art of curating a space that feels deeply personal. The right artwork can anchor that sense of wanderlust and tranquility, transforming a home into a reflection of your experiences and emotions.

If you’re looking for artwork that enhances a bohemian space, here are three limited-edition pieces designed to complement earthy tones, rich textures, and eclectic interiors. Each of these pieces is available in limited quantities, making them truly special additions to your home.

What is Bohemian Interior Design?

Bohemian (or "boho") interior design is a relaxed, free-spirited aesthetic that blends natural materials, layered textures, and global influences. Think woven textiles, macramé wall hangings, vintage furniture, and plenty of plants. The key to nailing a boho look is to create a cozy, curated space filled with meaningful pieces—and the right art can tie it all together.

👀 I chose three artworks that naturally complement this aesthetic.

1. SEKUMPUL – A Bali Waterfall Oasis 🌿

Lush, cascading waterfalls. Vibrant, untamed greenery. A place that feels as if it belongs in a dream.

What makes this piece special? One of my favorite things about SEKUMPUL is that you can zoom in to it in any way, and it feels like a brand-new work of art. The detail, texture, and movement are so rich that it offers something new every time you look at it. It's a piece that will provide fresh experiences for generations.

🪵 Bohemian Styling Tips:

• Pair with woven rattan frames or rustic wood for an organic touch.

• Place it near hanging plants like pothos or ferns to amplify its natural feel.

• Layer it with earth-tone textiles—deep greens, terracotta, and warm neutrals.

🎨 Limited Edition: This piece is available in a small, exclusive run—once it’s sold out, it won’t be restocked. See more about the artwork “Sekumpul” here.

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2. Chasing the Leaf – A Dreamlike Forest 🍃

Blurring past and present. Love and loss. Chasing something you can never quite catch.

The story behind this piece: My Chasing Series explores what it means to follow an emotion and allow it to consume you. Chasing the Leaf is inspired by a love story that never quite landed—one where I saw myself as the wind and my love interest as a drifting leaf, always just out of reach. This movement, this yearning, is what I tried to capture in the blurred forest.

✨ Bohemian Styling Tips:

• Frame with distressed wood or bamboo to enhance the organic feel.

• Layer it alongside woven wall hangings for added texture.

• Pair with candles, vintage ceramics, and earthy decor for a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

🎨 Limited Edition: This artwork is available in a very limited quantity, making it a unique piece for collectors. See more about Neverland here.

Dream it

〰️

Design it

〰️

Live in it

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Dream it 〰️ Design it 〰️ Live in it 〰️

Want Help Choosing the Right Artwork for Your Space?

Choosing the perfect artwork for your home isn’t always easy—but it’s something I love helping collectors with. If you’re looking for something special, try the Art Quiz

✨ Want a more guided approach to discover the best artwork for your home based on your style and preferences. It only takes a minute, and at the end, you’ll receive a custom selection of artworks curated just for you!

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3. Neverland – Mystical Coastal Serenity 🌊

A rugged island, cloaked in mist, floating in a sea of time. But here’s the twist—this wasn’t captured in daylight.

A fun fact: I photographed Neverland in the middle of the night, using a 60-second exposure lit only by the moon. At first glance, it looks like a daytime scene, but if you look closely, you’ll see subtle star streaks in the sky—a hidden detail that reveals its true origins.

🪵 Bohemian Styling Tips:

• Lean it against an exposed brick or textured wall for a relaxed, collected-over-time look.

• Complement with handmade pottery, driftwood, and woven textiles for an earthy feel.

• Use warm lighting (string lights, lanterns) to enhance the misty, ethereal mood.

🎨 Limited Edition: This piece is part of a very small release, and once it’s gone, it’s gone. See more about Neverland, here.

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Why Art is Essential in a Bohemian Space

A bohemian home thrives on authenticity, storytelling, and curated design. The right artwork doesn't just fill a wall—it invites emotion, memory, and conversation. Pieces like SEKUMPUL-II, Chasing the Leaf, and Neverland help create that layered, soulful feeling that makes a boho space feel warm and inviting.

FAQ: Decorating a Bohemian Space with Art

What size art should I choose for my boho room?
Large statement pieces can anchor the room, while smaller prints can add depth when grouped together in a gallery wall. Mixing scales creates a dynamic, curated effect.

How can I make my art feel more "bohemian" in my space?
Choose frames made from natural materials like wood, bamboo, or rattan. Layer your artwork with plants, candles, and textiles to build a warm, inviting atmosphere.

What kind of art works best in a bohemian space?
Art that features natural textures, organic colors, and earthy tones complements a boho aesthetic. Pieces inspired by nature, travel, or storytelling are especially fitting. Look for artwork that feels personal and evokes emotion.

What colors should I look for when choosing boho-inspired art?
Warm, earthy tones like terracotta, deep greens, and muted blues work beautifully. Don’t be afraid to mix in richer jewel tones like amber, indigo, or mustard for added depth.

How do I mix and match art in a bohemian space?
Layering is key. Combine framed prints with woven wall hangings, shelves of vintage objects, and textured fabrics to create a cozy, collected-over-time look.