The Real Portrait of America

The Real Portrait of America confronts anti-immigrant narratives through a portrait tradition historically reserved for regality, power, dignity, and legacy. As the son of Mexican immigrants, I’ve witnessed how dignity, labor, and contribution are often overlooked in favor of fear and division. This project comes from anger, pride, and admiration, placing immigrants in under-appreciated roles into the frame with the authority and humanity they deserve.

Nominations are open to the community (including self-nominations) as a way to recognize those whose contributions and sacrifices are often dismissed. See below to learn more.

This project is sponsored by Fujifilm as part of the GFX Grant Program.

About the Artist

I’m Jacob Sigala, a Los Angeles–based photographer and filmmaker whose work centers on culture, identity, and storytelling. I grew up in Venice, California, in a Mexican-American family where community, hard work, and looking out for one another were part of everyday life. That upbringing shapes the way I approach my work and the responsibility I feel when telling stories about people and place.

Nominations

The success of immigrants in this country is deeply rooted in community — in neighbors, families, coworkers, and friends who look out for one another. This project carries that spirit forward by inviting the community to take part in identifying who should be seen and honored.

Nominations are open to the public. You may nominate yourself or someone you know whose work plays an essential role in our shared daily life.

Submitting a nomination does not guarantee participation. Final selections will be made based on availability, role, and alignment with the project.

  • This project is seeking immigrants working in essential or under-recognized roles, including but not limited to:

    • Farmworkers

    • Kitchen and food service workers

    • Janitorial and cleaning staff

    • Delivery and logistics workers

    • Care and service workers

    Nominees should feel comfortable participating in a professional portrait project and having their image publicly shared.

  • If selected, participation includes:

    • One scheduled studio portrait session in Los Angeles

    • Wearing a work uniform or attire related to their job

    • Approximately 60–90 minutes total time commitment

    • A video camera crew for behind-the-scenes footage

    • Optional video conversation for context, if the participant is comfortable

    Participants must be available late March, with flexibility for:

    • One weekday option, and

    • One weekend option

    Exact dates and times will be confirmed directly with selected participants.

  • Participants selected for the project will receive $50 as a thank-you for their time and participation. This stipend is not employment or payment for services, but a gesture of appreciation.

  • This is a formal, contracted art project produced in partnership with Fujifilm.

    • Participants will be required to sign a release and participation agreement.

    • Once participation is confirmed and the agreement is signed, participants will not be able to withdraw from the project.

    • Images may be used in exhibitions, publications, online platforms, and commercial or promotional contexts related to the project and its partners.

    If you have questions or concerns about image use, please reach out before submitting a nomination.

    • Immigration status will not be requested or recorded.

    • Participants may choose how they are identified when possible (first name only, job title only, or anonymous where feasible).

    • Reasonable efforts will be made to respect privacy preferences.

    However, full anonymity cannot be guaranteed once images are publicly exhibited or shared.

    Participants should consider their personal circumstances and comfort level with visibility before agreeing to take part.

  • Participation is completely voluntary. There is no obligation to participate, and there is no penalty for declining or choosing not to submit a nomination.

    Individuals are encouraged to participate only if they feel comfortable with the scope, visibility, and terms of the project.

Submit a Nomination

If you would like to nominate yourself or someone else, please complete the form below.

If you have any questions or concerns before submitting, please reach out directly.

About the Artist

My projects often focus on honoring individuals and communities who are deeply woven into the fabric of our world but are rarely centered in traditional narratives. Whether I’m documenting local cultures, creating visual campaigns, or working on personal projects like this one, my goal is always the same: to create work that feels respectful, intentional, and rooted in lived experience.

The Real Portrait of America is a deeply personal project. It comes from my own relationship to immigration, belonging, and the people I grew up around, many of whom have carried entire communities on their backs without recognition. This project is my way of offering visibility, dignity, and pride through the language of portraiture.

You can contact me at thejacob@jacobsmedium.com with any questions!

Nopal en la Frente, 2023 | Self-portrait | Digital photograph