New York, New York (WTC), Tseng Kwong Chi (1950–1990)

Wearing a Chairman Mao worker’s suit and Ray-Bans, artist Tseng Kwong Chi stands in front of the World Trade Center twin towers two decades before their destruction on September 11, 2001. While these buildings now represent a tragic event, Tseng used the tall structures as a symbol of optimism. This photograph is part of the series in which the artist took self-portraits in front of iconic landmarks around the world, including California’s Hollywood sign and the Eiffel Tower. Tseng wears an identification card bearing the title “Art Alien,” suggesting not only that he is out of place but also that he is interchangeable with any other non-citizen.