The Meal We Share
Stories, Heritage, and the Food That Binds Us
A documentary capstone/thesis project preserving the voices, recipes, and memories of our elders—one meal at a time.
About the Project
Documenting heritage through the universal language of food and family.
The Meal We Share is a documentary project for my capstone that sits at the intersection of memory, heritage, and the act of sharing a meal. In a world increasingly fragmented by screens and distance, this project returns to something fundamental: the stories our elders carry, the recipes passed down through generations, and the irreplaceable moments around a table.
Through intimate interviews, cinematic cooking sequences, and environmental portraiture, this project seeks to capture not just what people say, but how they move, laugh, and live. It's about preserving the cadence of a loved one's voice as they explains the secret to their mother's dish. It's about the hands that have prepared thousands of meals. It's about legacy.
“This project was born from loss—the wish that I had recorded my father’s stories, my great-grandfather’s wisdom, their voices and gestures. The Meal We Share is my way of giving families what I no longer have: a keepsake of their loved ones that will endure.”
I'm seeking three individuals over the age of 45 from diverse cultural backgrounds to participate in this deeply personal documentary. Each participant would share their history, cook a meaningful dish, and create lasting memories with their families, all preserved in film and print for generations to come.
What Participants Receive
Your story, beautifully preserved across multiple mediums.
Public Documentary Short
A polished 5-minute documentary segment showcasing your story, featured at the capstone gallery exhibition in Bushwick on May 1, and on my website.
Printed Photo Book
A professionally printed book featuring environmental portraits, photojournalism from your cooking session, and the complete recipe of each featured dish. Your family receives a personal copy.
Exclusive Family Keepsake Video
An extended video containing all usable footage—your complete interview, cooking process, and family moments. This private keepsake is yours to treasure forever, never shared publicly.
Project Timeline
From first meeting to final delivery.
Initial Meeting
Day 1
We'll meet informally—no cameras, just conversation. This is a chance for you and your family to get to know me, ask questions, and ensure you're comfortable with the project before committing.
Interview Day
Day 2 (1-2 hours)
A relaxed, conversational interview about your life, culture, experiences, and the stories that shaped you. We'll take as much time as you need to share your memories authentically.
Cooking & Family Gathering
Day 3 (1-2 hours)
You'll prepare your special dish while I film and photograph the process. Then we'll capture you and your family (if available) enjoying the meal together—the heart of this project.
Capstone Exhibition
May 1, 2026
Your 5-minute documentary segment and photos will be showcased at the capstone gallery in Bushwick, along with the other contributors, celebrating your contribution to this project.
Your Keepsakes Delivered
May/June 2026
You'll receive your personal copy of the printed photo book and the exclusive extended family video—your permanent treasures to keep and pass down.
How to Participate
What you need to know before joining this project.
Who I'm Looking For
Individuals over the age of 45
From any cultural background or heritage
With stories, memories, and experiences to share
Who have a meaningful dish connected to family or tradition
Open to being filmed in an intimate, personal setting
Located in one of the 5 NYC boroughs
Fluent English is not required, but a translator would be needed
Time Commitment
One initial meeting (informal, no filming)
One interview session (1-2 hours, filming)
One cooking/family gathering session (1-2 hours, filming)
Filming dates: February 21 - April 8, 2026
Available primarily any day but Fridays
Flexible scheduling is available to accommodate your availability
Important Details
This is a volunteer-based project with no monetary compensation
You'll receive the photo book and exclusive keepsake video
The extended family video remains private—never shared publicly
You don't need family present (though it's encouraged if possible)
All filming takes place in your home or chosen familial location
You maintain final approval over your 5-minute public segment
Ready to Share Your Story?
If this project resonates with you, I'd love to hear from you. Let's preserve your legacy together.