Tiles That Unite is a photographic and storytelling project documenting mahjong players across all 50 states, highlighting how the game connects people, communities, and generations.
A: Much of the process relied on word of mouth, personal networks, and community recommendations. Mahjong players tend to know one another, even across long distances. The players were chosen for their genuine, personal connection to mahjong. I looked for people who actively play, teach, build communities, or carry the game forward in meaningful ways. Each participant brings a distinct story that reflects how mahjong lives in real homes and real communities.
Mahjong is often thought of as belonging to specific regions or communities, but that isn’t the full story. Including a player from each state allowed me to show how far the game reaches, how it adapts, and yet still holds its core traditions. It turns mahjong into a national conversation rather than a localized one. Representing every state highlights that no matter where it’s played—or who plays it—mahjong brings strategy, joy, and community. The book honors personal stories while showing how they connect across state lines.
The exhibition at MOCA reinforced the importance of context and storytelling. Seeing visitors engage with hand-carved tiles, select portraits framed in a vintage suitcase, and antique mahjong sets from the 1920s reminded me that mahjong is universal and that its tiles truly unite. People lingered, shared their own stories, pointed out familiar tiles, and connected with one another. That response confirmed the book’s mission: to share stories that connect all players, everywhere, regardless of style or background.
Tiles That Unite reflects what mahjong truly does. No matter who you are or where you come from, once you sit at the table, the tiles bring you together. They spark laughter, strategy, conversation, and shared stories. Across more than 150 players from around the country, I saw the same thing again and again. Different styles, backgrounds, and voices, all connected by the game. Mahjong doesn’t divide. The tiles unite.
I was working with real people, and over the course of the project, life happened. Participants became ill, some stepped away, others stopped responding, and two players sadly passed away. Because the book represents all 50 states, each change required finding new players to keep every state represented. Some participants also asked to update or remove photos or revise their words as the project evolved. Managing these changes while keeping the book on track was the biggest challenge and reinforced that this project is ultimately about connection and the people behind the tiles.
Mahjong continues to grow across generations, regions, and cultures. I see it becoming even more inclusive, with new players bringing creativity and unique traditions to the table. The book captures a snapshot of this evolution, showing how the game thrives in homes, clubs, and tournaments nationwide. It documents the living history of mahjong today while inspiring future players to carry it forward.
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